B.C. NDP’s Slim Majority Faces Test in Speaker Selection as Eby Floats Conservative Candidate

As the B.C. NDP prepares to govern with a narrow majority, Leader David Eby is exploring unconventional options for the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, suggesting a Conservative or Green MLA might take on the role traditionally filled by the ruling party. The Speaker's seat, which carries an additional salary of nearly $60,000 on top of the base MLA salary of around $120,000, is typically assigned to ensure neutrality in the legislature.

Eby extended “an open invitation” to any MLA willing to assume the Speaker position, potentially safeguarding the NDP’s slim 47-seat majority, which is still awaiting recount confirmation. With a Speaker from the governing party, the NDP’s effective majority would be reduced, making them more vulnerable in closely divided votes.

However, the opposition parties are wary. Conservative Leader John Rustad has openly stated he is not inclined to offer a Conservative MLA as Speaker, suggesting his members do not wish to support the NDP’s agenda. Several Conservative MLAs, including Teresa Wat, Ian Paton, and Peter Milobar, have already declined the invitation on social media.

The Speaker is essential in maintaining order during debates, acting somewhat like a referee, especially in the high-energy question periods. Former Speaker Claude Richmond describes the role as requiring fairness and impartiality, saying the Speaker must “let the players play” but step in when things get heated.

Eby’s suggestion for a cross-party Speaker echoes a similar situation in 2017 when Liberal MLA Darryl Plecas took the Speaker role under an NDP minority government, strengthening the NDP’s position and later serving as an Independent. Conservative MLAs remain opposed to stepping in, but with the NDP’s slim margin, Eby’s efforts to secure a Speaker without compromising his majority will be critical.

The next significant moment for the council will come soon with a byelection to replace MLA Christine Boyle, which could either fortify the NDP’s slim lead or add an opposition voice, potentially widening internal divides.