Donna Skelly elected as first female Speaker in Ontario’s legislature

A local member of provincial parliament has made history Monday, by becoming Ontario’s first female Speaker.

Flamborough-Glanbrook MPP Donna Skelly has been elected as the first female Speaker in Ontario’s legislature.

“It’s a proud moment, I’m very honoured to be elected. I know a lot of people put their faith in me to help them through the next four years. But to be the first woman is incredible. It’s very very special,” she says.

Progressive Conservative member Donna Skelly and New Democrat member Jennifer French both put their bids in for the job as Ted Arnott is set to retire.

Both women have served as deputy Speakers in the past.

A speaker is chosen at the beginning of every legislative session. It is a neutral, non-partisan role that presides over meetings and enforces the rules.

Skelly says that she wants to bring a more professional tone with less chaos to question period.

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“They still want to be able to criticize and challenge the people across the aisle regardless of their political affiliation, but I think it’s important that we have far more respect,” she says.

“In the long run, it will make our time in the legislature more productive and more enjoyable.”

Premier Doug Ford told reporters he’s excited for Skelly, though he’ll miss her voice in caucus.

“This is historic. It’s amazing that we have a woman as a Speaker and I’m actually shocked it’s taken this long to happen, but we’re glad we’re the first government to have a woman Speaker,” Ford says.

“It’s sad because she’s not going to be able to join us in caucus anymore.”

The legislature’s first and only order of business on the first day back after the February provincial election is to elect a Speaker.

Members are scheduled to return on Tuesday for the government’s throne speech, which will outline its priorities.

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