How to end a week: Nigel Wright resigns

Naturally, this how you end one of the most tumultuous weeks in #cdnpoli.

A statement landed in press gallery inboxes at 8:38 a.m. Sunday morning. It was Nigel Wright’s resignation as Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s chief of staff:

“In light of the controversy surrounding my handling of matters involving Senator Duffy, the Prime Minister has accepted my resignation as Chief of Staff.

“My actions were intended solely to secure the repayment of funds, which I considered to be in the public interest, and I accept sole responsibility.  I did not advise the Prime Minister of the means by which Sen. Duffy’s expenses were repaid, either before or after the fact.
 
“I regret the impact of this matter on the Government, our Caucus, and all of my colleagues, for whom I have the highest regard.  I came to Ottawa to do my part in providing good government for Canada, and that is all that I ever wanted and worked for in this role.”

At 8:45 a.m., a statement from the prime minister:

“It is with great regret that I have accepted the resignation of Nigel Wright as my Chief of Staff.  I accept that Nigel believed he was acting in the public interest, but I understand the decision he has taken to resign.  I want to thank Nigel for his tremendous contribution to our Government over the past two and a half years.

“Our Government’s top priority is, and will continue to be, securing jobs and economic growth for Canada.  This is the focus of all our efforts and attention.”