Prentice and Jean release statements on Jonathan Denis; Wildrose wants resignation
Posted May 4, 2015 3:17 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Following Monday’s court proceedings regarding former justice minister and current PC candidate Jonathan Denis, both his party and the opposition have released statements.
An emergency protection order against Denis was revoked by an Alberta judge today and the publication ban in connection to the case was lifted.
Premier Jim Prentice issued a release saying this was a matrimonial dispute that continues to be extremly difficult for both of these people.
He said he first became aware April 13th when his wife Karen made him aware of a Facebook message she had received from Denis’ estranged wife, Breanna Palmer, regarding issues in the marriage.
His statement continues:
“On the morning of April 25, I became aware that Ms. Palmer had sought and received an emergency protection order.
I immediately asked Mr. Denis to resign as Minister of Justice and Solicitor General given he was now involved with the courts.
Neither I, nor my wife have had any contact with Mr. Denis or Ms. Palmer on these matters since.
I waited to express my position because, as Premier, I cannot be seen to make any comment on or around a matter that is before the courts. However, this matter is now complete and the publication ban has been lifted.
I will not comment further on these very personal matters.”
Shortly later in the day, Wildrose Brian Jean issued his own statement called for Denis’ resignation as the PC candidate in the riding of Calgary-Acadia:
“Given the serious allegations raised from today’s court proceedings, Mr. Denis should step back from running for public office.
Considering the standard put forward by Jim Prentice as PC leader to bar candidates with prior emergency protective orders, keeping Mr. Denis as a representative shows questionable judgement.
Even if only half these allegations are proven to be true, it is only proper for Mr. Prentice to ask for his candidate’s resignation immediately.”
Denis said Monday morning that he was looking forward to getting back on the campaign trail ahead of the election on Tuesday.
