Liberal MP Francis Scarpaleggia elected new Speaker of the House of Commons

Liberal MP Francis Scarpaleggia, who hails from the Quebec riding of Lac-Saint-Louis, has been elected as the new Speaker of the House of Commons. This prestigious role will see him presiding over the upcoming busy parliamentary sessions, as Prime Minister Mark Carney has emphasized to his caucus.

The Speaker of the House is chosen through a secret ranked ballot by fellow MPs and is responsible for overseeing the proceedings of the House of Commons. This includes acting as an impartial moderator during debates and ensuring order is maintained throughout.

Despite being elected as a member of a political party, the Speaker does not align with any specific caucus as the position is meant to be non-partisan. Scarpaleggia expressed his gratitude upon assuming the role, acknowledging the challenges ahead and requesting a grace period as he settles into his duties.

In a show of support, Carney and interim Opposition leader Andrew Scheer escorted Scarpaleggia to the Speaker’s chair. Carney, addressing the House for the first time, extended his appreciation to those who voted for him and congratulated Scarpaleggia on his new position. He emphasized the importance of upholding parliamentary rules and traditions for the sake of democracy.

Scheer, a former Speaker himself, commended Scarpaleggia on his election and assured him of the Conservative Party’s backing. He highlighted the historical significance of the Speaker’s role in standing up to authority figures, emphasizing the need to defend the integrity of the parliamentary institution.

Scarpaleggia’s victory over Greg Fergus, the previous Speaker, came after a competitive race that saw several candidates vying for the position. His extensive experience in Parliament, serving on various committees and as the Liberal caucus chair, positions him well to lead the House of Commons effectively.

In his campaign speech, Scarpaleggia pledged to promote respectful and substantive debates in the House, emphasizing the importance of maintaining decorum and order. He stressed the value of Canada’s democracy and the role of the Speaker in fostering constructive dialogue among members.

As Scarpaleggia embarks on his tenure as Speaker, he envisions a House of Commons where robust debates thrive within a framework of mutual respect. Drawing parallels between Canada and ancient Athens, he underscored the cultural and democratic values that define the nation’s identity.

In conclusion, the appointment of Francis Scarpaleggia as the new Speaker of the House of Commons signals a new chapter in Canadian parliamentary proceedings. With a focus on upholding democratic principles and fostering productive discourse, Scarpaleggia is poised to steer the House through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.