Saying sorry will soon be easier in Canada

0 Comments | AFP, March, 2006

OTTAWA (AFP) — Saying sorry will no longer be so hard in westernmost Canada if a proposed law is passed that allows people and organizations to apologize for their bad behavior without fear of legal liability.

The province of British Columbia on Canada's Pacific coast introduced the legislation this week hoping to reduce the number of disputes that end up in court, its attorney general Wally Oppal told broadcaster CTV Wednesday.

It comes as several groups here wrestle with public relations nightmares over their perceived heartless refusal to show remorse over toxic environmental spills, transportation accidents, historical wrongs and other misdeeds or tragedies.

"There are times when an apology is very important and appropriate but the legal implications...