In typical political fashion, Energy Minister Stuart Young has issued an apologetic non-apology for his crass comments in Parliament last week Thursday. “I accept that more is expected of me as a representative member of Parliament and I wish to record my regret that this ‘cross-talk’ has unnecessarily distracted public discourse,” Young posted on social media yesterday. Language often reveals mindset, even when the speaker does not intend it.
In this case, Mr Young’s use of the passive voice suggests that he does not really accept responsibility. It is the “cross-talk”, disembodied words floating in the air, that caused the controversy, not the jibes that came out of his mouth. Also telling is the phrase “unnecessarily distracted public discourse”.
In Young’s mind, the public cannot tell the difference between a necessary and unnecessary distraction. He then goes on to humble brag: “I hope and trust that my record of service to our country speaks for itself.” What exactly is that record, Mr Young? But what most reveals the insincerity of Mr Young’s supposed regret is what is not there: no apology to Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar, who was the main target of his outburst.
The only question open to debate is whether Young’s boorishness is part of his character or driven by his status as Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley’s anointed Minister of Everything. Perhaps it is both. The Opposition has filed a motion of breach of privilege agains.