The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, also known as the Speaker of the House, is a key figure in the Legislative Assembly.
The Speaker is an MLA elected in a secret ballot by all Members of the Legislative Assembly to preside over debates and make sure the Assembly follows established rules of Behaviour and procedure.
The election of the Speaker is the first item of business for a new Parliament and is open to all MLAs except Cabinet ministers. It takes place on the first sitting day after each general election or when a Speaker is recalled, resigns, retires, or dies. If there is not a Speaker in place, a new session of the Legislative Assembly cannot proceed with its business until one is elected. The election of the Speaker is presided over by the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly.
The Speaker is neutral, responsible for making sure that all MLAs, no matter what party they belong to, are treated fairly and impartially. The Speaker will only vote in the Assembly to break a tie.
