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Raitt says sorry for ‘sexy’ cancer comment

Lisa Raitt is finally saying sorry.

OTTAWA — Lisa Raitt is finally saying sorry.

The natural resources minister offered a belated and teary apology today for describing the shortage of isotopes used in cancer tests as a “sexy” issue from which she could benefit politically.

Raitt refused to apologize Tuesday despite heavy criticism from the opposition and the public.

Outraged cancer survivors and their supporters demanded Raitt resign — or at least apologize — for remarks they considered to be insensitive and calculating.

The rookie minister made the controversial comments in a private conversation with her aide which was accidentally caught on tape.

The tape was misplaced by the aide and fell into the hands of a reporter for the Halifax Chronicle Herald.