In addition to the Speaker, the Legislative Assembly also appoints MLAs to serve in the following positions:
- Deputy Speaker
- Assistant Deputy Speaker
- Deputy Chairperson of the Committee of the Whole
If the Speaker is absent, the Deputy Speaker presides over debates in their stead, with all of the same powers, privileges, and duties. If the Deputy Speaker is absent, the Assistant Deputy Speaker or the Deputy Chairperson of the Committee of the Whole may preside over debates in the Legislative Chamber. In the event that all presiding officers are absent, any Member appointed by the Assembly shall take the chair, perform the duties, and exercise the authority of the Speaker in relation to all the proceedings of the Assembly.
The position of Assistant Deputy Speaker was created during the 38th Parliament. It was a significant change at that time as it was the first opportunity for an opposition MLA to hold a position as one of the Assembly’s presiding officers.
