The Canadian Scene.

New Saskatchewan Speaker

On March 12, Saskatchewan Party MLA Mark Docherty was elected Speaker of the Saskatchewan Legislative Assembly. Speaker Docherty replaces Corey Tochor who resigned in January to seek the federal Conservative Party's nomination in the Saskatoon-University riding.

Seven MLAs (including Glen Hart, Delbert Kirsch, Warren Michelson, Eric Olauson and Colleen Young of the Saskatchewan Party, and Danielle Chartier of the NDP) sought the Speaker's role. Docherty, who represents Regina Coronation Park, won on the fifth ballot.

Docherty was escorted to the chair by Premier Scott Moe and Official Opposition leader Ryan Meili (both of whom newly assumed their positions). Donning the Speaker's tricorn hat and robes, Docherty joked, "That was the reason why I ran."

Prior to his political career, Docherty earned a Bachelor of Science, a Bachelor of Human Justice, and a Masters of Social Work and taught courses at the University of Regina and Saskpolytec. A decorated athlete, Docherty was an active lacrosse, rugby and handball player and competed internationally in triathlon competitions. He was also heavily involved in many community organizations, including a tenure as director of Dales House, which offers services to troubled youth.

First elected in 2011, Docherty has served as Saskatchewan's Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport, Minister responsible for the Provincial Capital Commission, and Legislative Secretary for Disability Issues and Legislative Secretary to the Premier (Immigration and Culture).

Regional Executive Committee, CPA *

PRESIDENT

Myrna Driedger, Manitoba

FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT

Yasmin Ratansi, Federal Branch

SECOND VICE-PRESIDENT

Kevin Murphy, Nova Scotia

PAST PRESIDENT

Perry Trimper, Newfoundland and Labrador

REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVES

Alexandra Mendes, Federal Branch

Nils Clarke, Yukon

Perry Trimper, Newfoundland and Labrador

CHAIR OF THE CWP, CANADIAN SECTION

(Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians)

Linda Reid, British Columbia

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY-TREASURER

Blair Armitage, Senate

Members of the Regional Council *

HOUSE OF COMMONS

Geoff Regan, Speaker Charles Robert, Clerk

SENATE

George Furey, Speaker Vacant, Clerk

ALBERTA

Robert Wanner, Speaker Robert Reynolds, Secretary

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Darryl Plecas, Speaker Craig James, Secretary

CANADIAN FEDERAL BRANCH

Yasmin Ratansi, Chair Remi Bourgault, Secretary

MANITOBA

Myma Driedger, Speaker Patricia Chaychuk, Secretary

NEW BRUNSWICK

Chris Collins, Speaker Donald Forestell...