HALIFAX
Expect to see Charlie Parker with his nose in rule books for the summer.
The NDP MLA for Pictou West was nominated and voted in as Speaker of the House of Assembly Thursday June 25.
“It's certainly very much an honour,” says Parker, who has represented Pictou West continuously since 2003 and served for about a year as deputy speaker in 2005 and 2006.
As speaker Parker will be responsible for moderating debate and ensuring proper order is maintained in the House. The parliamentary system has been around for centuries and there is a host of protocol that must be maintained, he says. He is also responsible for breaking any ties.
Parker is well respected across party lines and believes he’ll be able to keep discussions from degrading into petty fights.
“I've always taken the position if you treat people with respect, they'll treat you back with respect and I bel...