Mr. Chair, it is with humility and deep respect that I am putting my name forward today as a candidate for Speaker of the House of Commons.
To those members who are returning to the House, welcome back. It is wonderful to see so many familiar faces. To those newly elected, I extend a warm welcome. Each of us has earned the trust of our constituents and has a responsibility to represent the diverse voices of Canadians. Regardless of our party, region or perspective, we are united in our shared duty to serve our democracy with integrity and to uphold the institutions that sustain it.
It is no small matter to have the honour of presiding over the House of Commons, where these diverse voices come together, sometimes loudly, often passionately, to shape the course of our country. The Speaker has a solemn responsibility to preserve the dignity of Parliament, ensure fairness in debate and, perhaps most difficult of all, keep 343 highly intelligent and opinionated people somewhat on schedule.
The Speaker's role is non-partisan and founded on principles. It demands fairness and an unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and privileges of each member of Parliament. If I secure the support of this House, I pledge to treat all members equally, respectfully and impartially, because I know that democracy flourishes not when everyone agrees, but when everyone feels that their voice have been heard.
I bring nearly 10 years of parliamentary experience as a parliamentary secretary, deputy leader of the government, chair of the Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology, and probably the only member who actually asked to sit on the procedure and House affairs committee.
As a fellow elected representative, I understand the demands of public service and the pressures we all face, but I also believe that impassioned debate and decorum are not mutually exclusive. The Speaker fulfills several key responsibilities: presiding over debates and ensuring the enforcement of rules and the preservation of order and decorum, acting as chief administrative officer of the House and representing the House in its external relations. Of these, the one I have heard the most about in my conversations over the past weeks is the preservation of decorum. On this, let me be very clear. I will be fair, firm and consistent.
The Standing Orders and House of Commons Procedure and Practice offer a solid framework to guide our work, and with nearly a third of members joining the House for the first time, it is especially important that the Speaker provide guidance, clarity and support. Expectations must be clearly communicated, and when rules are not followed, corrective action must be taken. In this regard, I have demonstrated my ability to lead impartially and keep order as the chair of the INDU committee.
My two sons will attest to my near obsession with rules and order. In fact, they both voluntarily enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces at age 16, believing that even the military was bound to have fewer rules than we had at home.
Above and beyond rules, the tone and culture of this place matter. In these times of uncertainty, when trust in institutions is being tested, we must renew our commitment to civility, transparency and respectful dialogue. Canadians are watching us, especially young Canadians. Our children and grandchildren are paying attention to how we speak to one another, how we handle disagreement and how we uphold the principles of democracy. Let us give them something to be proud of.
I also believe in a modern, accessible Parliament that embraces new technologies, reflects the realities of Canadians and combines tradition with innovation. Parliament must evolve to adapt to the present, while preserving a foundation that has served us well for generations.
To put it plainly, I do not see the role of Speaker as a one-way street. It must be one that encourages a constant flow of ideas, viewpoints and suggestions on how we can make this institution stronger to work better for all members, which is ultimately for the people we are all here to serve. This is, after all, their House.
I have a vision of Parliament as a place that reflects the best of what we are as Canadians and what we stand for as parliamentarians.
If I have the honour of serving as Speaker, I will dedicate myself wholeheartedly to this mission. I will be fair, firm and consistent to ensure that the House is strong, dignified and inclusive.