When the Legislative Assembly is sitting, the Sergeant-at-Arms or a deputy is always present in the Legislative Chamber and acts on the instructions of the Speaker in the event of any disorder in the Chamber, the lobbies and corridors, or the Public galleries. Under the authority of the Legislative Assembly, the Sergeant-at-Arms may take into custody any persons who misconduct themselves. The Sergeant-at-Arms may also ensure the attendance at the Bar of the House of any persons who are summoned by the Assembly.
Did You Know?
In 1983, Bill Bennett’s Social Credit government introduced policies of widespread fiscal restraint designed to combat a sharp economic downturn. Major cutbacks were proposed in social services, education, and labour, leading to demonstrations and work stoppages throughout the summer and fall. At 4:30 am on October 6 of that year, during a round-the-clock sitting of the Legislative Assembly to debate the Public Sector Restraint Act, 1983, the Leader of the Opposition and former Premier, Dave Barrett, was physically removed from the Chamber after repeatedly disregarding the authority of the Speaker. Barrett’s removal marked the first time in the history of the Legislative Assembly that an MLA had to be forcibly removed. The bill passed on October 12.
