The head of New Zealand's employment agency is back-pedaling after suggesting that women aren't paid as much as men because of their periods.

Alasdair Thompson, who runs the Employers and Manufacturers Association, shocked the country when he said on national radio that women are paid 12 percent less than men because of that "time of the month."

"Look at who takes the most sick leave," he said. "Because you know, once a month they have a sick problem. Not all women, but some do. They have children, and they have to take leave off."

Moments after that statement aired, a public uproar arose about Thompson's supposed sexism.

Realizing that his comments were out of line, he soon said he was sorry for them and insisted he supports equal pay. "The first thing I want to do is apologize to any person, man or woman, because some men have taken offense, too," he said.

But unfortunately, the apology wasn't necessarily what everyone wanted to hear. "Women take more sick leave in general," he said. "I know it's an awful thing to say, but it's true."

Since the controversial statements, Thompson has apologized again and explained that he "learned his lesson."

It might not be enough to save his job. The EMA is currently weighing whether he has a future with the organization or should step down.