If not interested in the clip, need to read their comments.
OTTAWA — The host of a Fox News program that mocked the Canadian military and sparked outrage across the country has apologized.
In a statement issued to Sun Media by the U.S. network today, Greg Gutfeld, who led the panelists in the tirade making fun of Canadian soldiers and the RCMP, said sorry for the offending remarks.
“The March 17th episode of Red Eye included a segment discussing Canada's plan for a ‘synchronized break,’ which was in no way an attempt to make light of troop efforts. However, I realize that my words may have been misunderstood,” Gutfeld said in the statement. “It was not my intent to disrespect the brave men, women and families of the Canadian military, and for that I apologize. Red Eye is a satirical take on the news, in which all topics are addressed in a lighthearted, humorous and ridiculous manner.”
Defence Minister Peter MacKay called the segment “crass” and “disgusting” and demanded an unqualified apology.
“They should simply retract these remarks and apologize to the families, most particularly to the memory of these soldiers and to Canadians more broadly,” he told CTV News today.
The five-minute segment, which aired on the Fox News late-night program and was later posted on YouTube.com, features American panelists suggesting Canadian soldiers need time off for "manicures and pedicures." The item aired after Lt.-Gen. Andrew Leslie, the Canadian Forces Chief of Land Staff, told a Senate committee the military would need a one-year break from operations after the mission in Afghanistan winds down in 2011.
"The Canadian military wants to take a breather to do some yoga, paint landscapes, run on the beach in gorgeous white capri pants," Gutfeld said with a sneer.
Another panelist Doug Benson said he was unaware Canadian troops were on the ground in Afghanistan.
"I didn't even know they were in the war. I thought that's where you go if you don't want to fight -- you go chill in Canada," he said.
