Speeches
It may surprise you to know that, in spite of his title, the Speaker of the House of Commons is rarely given the opportunity to speak. The title of Speaker derives from his duty to speak outside the Chamber on behalf of all Members, not from his role inside the Chamber.
However, outside the House of Commons, the Speaker is often asked to address different groups on a variety of topics. The Speaker welcomes incoming foreign dignitaries, leads parliamentary delegations to other countries, and meets with Canadian and international organisations, both at home and abroad. He visits schools to speak to students, and regularly returns to his riding to meet with his constituents and discuss the issues that are important to them.
- The G7 for Africa and the Mediterranean: the Common Challenges of Stability and Growth - The 22nd G7 Speakers’ Meeting – Verona, Italy – September 06, 2024
- Better Together: Working Together in Challenging Times Conference of Speakers of the European Union Parliaments – Palma, Spain – April 22, 2024
- Unveiling of the Bust of Lincoln Alexander Queen’s Park, Toronto – January 21, 2024
- EngageParlDiplo – Orientation Session for newly arrived diplomats – Carleton University – November 07, 2023
- 24th edition of the Teachers Institute – Dinner with Parliamentarians – November 01, 2023
- Statement on Order and Decorum – October 18, 2023