Historic Appointment: Canadian MP Greg Fergus Elected As First Black Speaker Of The House Of Commons

In a monumental moment in Canadian parliamentary history, Greg Fergus, a Liberal Member of Parliament, has secured the prestigious Speaker of the House of Commons position. This comes after former Speaker Anthony Rota’s resignation due to a controversial incident involving a visitor who fought for the Nazis was honoured in the House of Commons.

The selection of the new Speaker was a highly competitive process, with eight members of parliament vying for the prestigious role. Among the contenders was Green Party leader Elizabeth May. However, after voting, the honour ultimately went to Greg Fergus, making him the first black Speaker in Canadian history.

Fergus’ journey to this historic appointment is noteworthy in its own right. Born and raised in Quebec, he has a long career in public service. Before his ascent to the role of Speaker, he had been serving as the Member of Parliament for Hull-Aylmer since 2015. Fergus’ bid to become speaker was a well-kept secret which propelled the backbencher into the Speakers Chair.

As the House of Commons Speaker, Fergus assumes a vital and impartial role in the Canadian parliamentary system. The Speaker’s primary duty is maintaining order and decorum during parliamentary sessions, ensuring that the government’s work is conducted fairly. This involves presiding over debates, deciding who may speak, and ensuring that parliamentary rules are upheld. The Speaker is also responsible for representing the House of Commons in its relations with the Crown and the Senate, making this a position of profound significance in Canada’s democratic framework.

Furthermore, the Speaker of the House of Commons plays a crucial role in safeguarding the rights and privileges of all Members of Parliament, irrespective of their political affiliation. His election symbolizes a profound shift towards a more diverse and inclusive political landscape in Canada, setting a precedent for future generations.

Fergus will now reside at “The Farm,” the official residence of the Speaker of the House of Commons since 1955. The Farm is located in the Gatineau Hills near Kingsmere, offering a suitable place for the Speaker to carry out their duties.

In addition to the residence, Speaker Fergus’ will receive a salary increase of almost $93,000 on top of his existing MP salary of nearly $200,000. This reflects the added responsibilities of the Speaker’s role within the Canadian parliamentary system.

Image source Gov. Canada