EAST CENTRAL — Two local MLAs made a bid to become Speaker of the Saskatchewan Legislature.
The Speaker presides over debates and ensures that the Legislature's established rules of behaviour and procedure are followed.
Hugh Nerlien, the MLA for Kelvington-Wadena, and Nadine Wilson, the MLA for Saskatchewan Rivers, were among the six that put their names in for the position, which is elected by a majority vote of MLAs through a secret ballot.
Randy Weekes, the MLA for Biggar-Sask. Valley, won the Nov. 30 vote.
Nerlien was knocked out after the second ballot, while Wilson was knocked out after the fourth ballot.
In the final, fifth ballot, Weekes defeated the incumbent, Mark Docherty. Weekes has been a member of the Assembly for the Sask. Party since 1999.
Upon the announcement of his election, Weekes took the Speaker’s chair and pledged to put aside all partisanship in carrying out his new duties as Speaker.
“Just a few personal notes. Just obviously, I really am humbled by the trust you’ve put in me. Thank you to all the members, especially the members who ran for Speaker.”
