Marcel Aubut, the former president of the Canadian Olympic Committee, has publicly apologized to those he hurt in a sex harassment scandal that led to him stepping down last weekend.

The 67-year old Aubut left his post saying the allegations were a major distraction to the COC.

At a news conference in Montreal where he read a statement and took no questions, he said, ”It’s from the bottom of my heart and with all sincerity that I offer my apologies without reservation.”

Without mentioning the allegations he added, ”I infinitely regret to have hurt people who have not deserved it.  I hope one day they will forgive me.  I must remind myself that society has changed, and it expects more respect between people, especially between men and women.”

Aubut has also resigned from the BCF law firm and seeking help from ”experts” to help him change and ”become a better person.”

Former Olympian and B.C. lawyer Tricia Smith has taken over as interim president of the COC.