After hearing from Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s hand-picked choice for the new position of Public Appointments Commissions Chair, the Public Accounts committee has rejected former Encana CEO Gwyn Morgan, deeming him “unsuitable” for the post.

Morgan repeatedly refused to apologize for offensive comments he made about immigrants, low-wage workers and unions in a speech he gave several months ago.

“Mr. Morgan’s comments were deeply offensive, insensitive and out of step with Canadian values,” NDP MP Peggy Nash (Parkdale-High Park) said. “He had the opportunity to withdraw and apologize for his remarks to demonstrate to us his suitability. He refused, so we acted.”

Nash moved the motion at the Government Operations and Estimates Standing Committee calling on Prime Minister Harper to withdraw his nominee for Public Appointments Commission Chair.

“The Prime Minister must recognize the democratic will of the committee and recognize the unsuitability of his choice. He should publicly withdraw this nominee immediately.”

In December of 2005 Morgan addressed the Fraser Institute Forum and made controversial remarks about Asian and Jamaican immigrants to Canada and their supposed propensity for violence.

Mr. Morgan also attacked low wage workers, auto sector unions and the New Democratic Party in the same speech. Nash believes that such a deeply partisan and ideological person should not serve in a position that is meant to stem the tide of partisan patronage appointments.