Anthony Rota re-elected as Commons Speaker | CBC News

After Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Leader of the Opposition Erin O’Toole — following tradition — jokingly dragged Rota to the Speaker’s chair, the Ontario MP thanked his colleagues for choosing him to be the House’s peacekeeper.

“Thank you again for the confidence that you have placed in me as Speaker for a second term. I have very honoured to be up her both politically and personally. I know this is something I know I will treasure for the rest of my life,” he said, promising to be “fair and respectful.”

“I guess one of the good things about being Speaker is I probably upset both sides equally, so I appreciate you working this out,” he said.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau kicked off the congratulatory speeches, thanking Rota and the other six candidates for running. 

“There will be moments when we will get caught up in heated debate and when that happens we will have you, Mr. Speaker, to guide us back on track,” Trudeau said. 

“This is a historic moment of change and opportunity for our country, Mr Speaker. I know you will help us rise to meet it.” 

Conservative Leader Erin O’Toole Congratulated Rota, saying that while Canadians often feel disconnected from what happens in the House of Commons, Rota was able to ensure they felt they were part of it during the pandemic.

“This is the people’s House and too often … they often feel left out of these debates,” O’Toole said.  

“You’ve been able to preside through a difficult time of our pandemic, making sure our democracy, the light of our democracy, did not flicker.”