The government should respond to Joy MacPhail's unqualified apology by treating the legislative assembly with respect. The Campbell Liberals behave as if they own the legislature rather than being temporary residents who have a duty to safeguard the institution.

The Liberals didn't apologize when they attacked the former NDP whip, Gerrard Jansen. They didn't apologize for their attempts to discredit Elayne Brenzinger. Don't expect them to apologize for further degrading parliament with their outrageous walkout from the legislature and threat to refuse to answer questions from MacPhail. That threat is consistent with their refusal to recognize the Official Opposition.

According to news reports, Richard Stewart accepted MacPhail's apology but has not ruled out legal action. I am neither a lawyer nor am I a clairvoyant, but I would caution Stewart against wasting money on lawyers. The remarks that were made outside of the legislature were not broadcast or published, an unqualified apology was offered and accepted, and most importantly, an action would result in testimony where "what happens in caucus remains secret" is not an acceptable answer. Pushing the case could open the secret door and produce testimony on who was suspended and for what reasons. When you think of it that way, maybe spending a little money on lawyers isn't so bad after all.

Don't expect question period to suddenly turn into answer period just because Ministers rise in response to MacPhail's questions. Anyone who regularly follows question period knows that rants often replace reasoned positions from government. Estimates debate is like an extended question period where each Minister answers questions on their Ministry's budget. It is normally much more civilized than question period, and is a forum where useful information is obtained. Last week Christy Clark demonstrated her arrogance by handling her estimates as she would question period. She frequently remained in her seat when asked a question, and often she gave a flippant excuse for not answering. Rarely did she demonstrate any understanding that estimates debate is an important part of the accountability process where the opposition is merely the vehicle to help the public obtain answers to pressing questions.

Eventually, the theatrics of last week will turn into old news; however, the problem of access to information and accountability of the government will remain.