Statement
February 15, 2022
Statement on the wearing of masks in the Chamber
Hon. Anthony Rota
Speaker of the House
Ruling Text
The Speaker:
Earlier today, questions were raised in the House about the wearing of masks in the chamber. I note that all members are certainly wearing their masks, and I applaud them for that.
As members will know, since the beginning of the pandemic, my fellow Chair occupants and I have consistently reminded members to wear their masks in the House when they are not speaking in debate. This is in keeping with public health advice that states masks should be worn, especially when social distancing is not possible, as is often the case in the chamber. In fact, as soon as one leaves the chamber, the wearing of masks is mandatory, further to measures adopted by the Board of Internal Economy. This is for the safety and security of members and staff.
[Translation]
That said, further to the Speaker's ruling of December 2, 2021, only the House can determine the rules that it will apply to itself and its committees. While the Board of Internal Economy has strongly recommended that members wear a mask when they are at their place during parliamentary proceedings, it cannot impose such a requirement. Ultimately, the House has sole authority to determine how it conducts its proceedings.
As Speaker, I am the servant of the House. To date, all parties have supported the Chair's efforts to encourage the wearing of face masks when not speaking and have raised points of order when this practice has not been followed.
[English]
This being Tuesday, I understand the House leaders will be meeting later today, and I would encourage them to discuss this issue so that there can be clarity for all members.
I thank all members for their attention.
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Holding
"The Speaker cannot unilaterally impose a mask mandate in the Chamber, as this power rests solely with the House itself; the matter is therefore referred to the House leaders for discussion and clarification."
AI Summary
The Speaker clarifies that while mask-wearing is strongly encouraged, only the House itself can mandate it, and refers the issue to House leaders for discussion.
AI Analysis
- Outcome
- Other
- Tone
- Conciliatory
- Procedural Stage
- Daily Routine
- Significance
Low
High