Veterans Minister Shaun Leane sorry for Anzac Day comments

Victorian Veterans Minister Shaun Leane has apologised two days after sparking outrage over Anzac Day comments, saying he did not mean to cause offence.

Victorian Veterans Minister Shaun Leane has issued a belated apology, two days after sparking outrage over Anzac Day comments.

Mr Leane was asked in Parliament on Wednesday about reports in the Herald Sun that RSL sub branches were cancelling their Anzac Day events because of difficulties setting up COVID-safe plans.

But the Parliament erupted after Mr Leane dovetailed his response with comments about MPs publicising their support for the day.

“I’d say to the Coalition members, you will get a chance to get your selfie looking all sad when you are putting a wreath in front of there,” he said.

“When you push the war widows, when you push the veterans out of your way, when you get there first you will get your chance.”

Victorian Minister for Veterans Affairs Shaun Leane.

Acting Premier James Merlino defended Mr Leane when questioned about the comments.

But late on Friday Mr Leane issued a statement on social media, apologising for the comments.

He said he was trying to make a point that veterans should be supported every day, not just on Anzac Day.

“Having reflected on the contribution I made on Wednesday, I know the manner in which I made that point — as valuable as I continue to believe it is — was poor,” he posted.

“It was over the top and caused offence where it needn’t have — and certainly was not intended to. For that — I apologise.”

But the apology was described as too little too late by Opposition Leader Michael O’Brien.

“Minister for Veterans disgraces himself in Parliament and disrespects veterans,” Mr O’Brien posteed on Twitter.

“Refuses to apologise. @JamesMerlinoMP backs him. Sneaks out a statement — burying an apology — after 7pm on a Friday.

“Thank God our ADF have more courage than this excuse for a Minister.”

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