Upon the return of Parliament, Canadian members of Parliament appointed Liberal MP Francis Scarpaleggia as the Speaker of the House of Commons as their initial task.
As per tradition, Scarpaleggia was escorted to the front of the House of Commons by Prime Minister Mark Carney and interim Opposition Leader Andrew Scheer following his selection.
Competing against five other Liberal colleagues, Scarpaleggia emerged victorious after Conservative MPs John Nater and Chris d’Entremont withdrew their nominations.
“As we embark on this new term, I humbly request a brief grace period from my fellow members,” expressed Scarpaleggia, an MP representing Montreal. “Let us all strive to achieve our goals after this period of absence.”
Additionally, Liberal MPs Sean Casey, Alexandra Mendes, Rob Oliphant, Sherry Romanado, and former Speaker Greg Fergus also presented themselves as candidates.
Green Party Leader Elizabeth May opted out of the competition, citing limitations on her involvement in issues as the sole party MP if she became Speaker.
In his inaugural duty as Speaker, Scarpaleggia called for a moment of silence to honor the victims of the tragic Lapu Lapu Day festival incident in Vancouver, where 11 individuals lost their lives and many others were wounded in April.
Due to the ongoing federal election, the moment of silence was not observed at that time in the House.
Representing the Quebec riding of Lac-Saint-Louis since 2004, the 67-year-old Scarpaleggia has been re-elected in every subsequent election, serving on various committees and as chair of the National Liberal Caucus.
Prime Minister Carney acknowledged Scarpaleggia’s long-standing service and the respect members hold for him in his initial remarks delivered in French in the House of Commons.
Scheer also conveyed his party’s best wishes to Scarpaleggia on his appointment as Speaker.
The Speaker’s pivotal role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the chamber is highlighted, especially in minority governments where disruptions can jeopardize the government’s agenda.
The Speaker is expected to maintain a non-partisan stance, overseeing daily proceedings, adjudicating on procedure breaches or MP privileges, and upholding decorum and conduct.
With a Liberal MP as Speaker, the party’s seat count decreases to 168, underscoring the ongoing necessity for government support from other parties for legislative passage and confidence votes.
Aside from its responsibilities, the position offers several benefits, including a substantial salary, driver, hospitality budget, and an official residence in Gatineau Park.
—with files from The Canadian Press
