Dawson replaces Mather as HOA Deputy Speaker

Dr Karl Dawson has now been appointed as the new Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, replacing Stacy Mather following a government-backed motion.

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley led the motion to remove Mather during a recent sitting, describing his appointment from the Opposition as an “anomaly” that needed to be corrected now that the government has an additional member on its side.

“This is certainly not being done because he did not do a good job in the position. I believe he conducted himself well. But as I said before, it is an anomaly that we must correct,” Dr Wheatley stated.

The Premier thanked Mather for his service and added that the government looks forward to working with the new Deputy Speaker to strengthen the House’s operations.

“Madam Speaker, the person who is selected after Honourable Mather, I know, will also do a very good job. And we look forward to the development of this institution,” he explained.

Longtime legislator Julian Fraser supported the motion, acknowledging Mather’s performance in the role. “He has nothing to be ashamed of and everything to be proud of. I’m proud of him for the work he’s done,” Fraser stated.

Dr Dawson’s appointment came immediately after the motion to remove Mather was passed. With no other nominations made, Speaker of the House Corine George-Massicote declared Dr Dawson the new Deputy Speaker and oversaw his swearing-in.

Dr Dawson will now assist the Speaker in managing the affairs of the House and preside over sittings in her absence.

Premier Wheatley hinted that the change is part of broader efforts to support the Speaker’s ambitions for reform within the House. “You will have an able deputy to assist you in the execution of those plans,” he stated.

Dr Dawson, a former president of H Lavity Stoutt Community College, is serving his first term as an elected legislator in the House of Assembly.

Premier defends intention to appoint Dawson as Deputy Speaker