House of Commons Speaker, Greg Fergus, apologized for a video message he recorded, which was played during Ontario Liberal leadership’s convention. Some opposition parties are calling for him to step down over the issue, citing impartiality concerns. Mr. Fergus told MPs in the House of Commons, “It should not be seen as partisan to recognize a colleague’s departure. It is an act of friendship and respect. That said, I would like to apologize and reassure members that this kind of event will not happen again.” He also stated, “I would like to reassure members that the principles of respect, impartiality and decorum are values that I will continue to prioritize.”
Over the weekend, Mr. Gergus appeared in a video message played at the Ontario Liberal leadership convention, where he is seen exiting the Speakers’ chamber wearing the traditional robes of his role to speak about his relationship with former Ontario Liberal leaders Dalton McGuinty and Kathleen Wynne. Mr. McGuinty is leaving as the interim provincial Liberal leader after Bonnie Crombie was elected on Dec. 2. According to parliamentary rules, the Speaker of the House must always show “the impartiality required to maintain the trust and goodwill of the House.”
Some MPs, including Bloc Quebecois MP Alain Therrien, have called for Mr. Fergus to resign, stating he had not shown impartiality or good judgement. Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner said Mr. Fergus’ explanation was “utterly preposterous”. NDP MP Charlie Angus said the incident was serious, but did not take a position on whether Mr. Fergus should resign from his position, nor did any Liberal MPs.
Former Speaker Andrew Scheer rose in the House to explain why the actions had breached the Speaker’s tradition of impartiality and later called for him to resign. “This conduct is simply unacceptable. It defies all long-standing traditions and expectations attached to the high office of Speaker,” said Mr. Scheer.
Mr. Scheer said that the actions of Mr. Fergus should be treated as a “prima facie contempt of the House,” proposed a motion calling for MPs to denounce the incident. He added, “I do believe that this has undermined the position of the Speaker so greatly that I must add my voice and the voice of those of the official opposition to those who have asked the Speaker to resign.”