Based on coverage from Yukon News.
Historic Nomination for Yukon Party Legislative Assembly
In a significant move for Canadian politics, Yukon Premier-designate Currie Dixon has announced plans to nominate Yvonne Clarke as the Speaker of the 36th Yukon Legislative Assembly. If confirmed, Clarke will make history as the first Filipino Speaker in Canadian parliamentary history. This nomination follows the swearing-in ceremony for the Yukon Party MLAs on November 20.
Clarke, a two-time MLA, was recently elected to represent Whistle Bend North. She previously made headlines in 2021 as the first Filipina MLA in the Yukon Legislative Assembly. Her nomination as Speaker is not just a personal milestone but a symbolic step forward for diversity in Canadian politics. Clarke expressed her commitment to her constituents, stating, "While I take on the job of Speaker, I would like my constituents in Whistle Bend North to know that I will be accessible to help address any issues or concerns they may have."
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Role and Responsibilities of the Speaker
The Speaker of the Yukon Legislative Assembly plays a crucial role in maintaining order and decorum during legislative proceedings. According to the assembly's website, the Speaker is elected by the legislative assembly and chairs the Members’ Services Board, an all-party committee. The Speaker also acts as the spokesperson and representative of the assembly in relations with the Yukon commissioner and other external bodies.
Clarke's nomination comes as Jeremy Harper, the former Liberal MLA for Mayo-Tatchun, steps down from his role as Speaker under the previous Liberal minority government. Clarke's involvement with the Steering Committee of Canadian Women Parliamentarians as part of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Association highlights her dedication to gender equity and representation.
Yukon Party Swearing-In Ceremonies and Political Landscape
The swearing-in ceremonies for the newly elected members of the Yukon Legislative Assembly are set to take place in the assembly chambers, presided over by Yukon Commissioner Adeline Webber. The events will unfold over three separate ceremonies for each of the territorial political parties. The Yukon Party, which holds a majority with 14 members, will have its ceremony on November 20. The NDP, with six MLAs, and the lone Liberal MLA, Debra-Leigh Reti, will have their ceremonies on November 19.
Currie Dixon, the leader of the Yukon Party, will be sworn in as Premier on November 22, along with his cabinet ministers, whose names have yet to be publicly announced. This transition marks a new chapter in Yukon's political landscape, with the Yukon Party poised to lead the territory.
As Clarke awaits the formal nomination process, her potential appointment as Speaker is a testament to the evolving face of Canadian politics, reflecting both diversity and the increasing representation of women in leadership roles.
