Docherty beats 6 other MLAs to be named new Speaker

Mark Docherty, the MLA REGINA from Regina Coronation Park, has been selected the Speaker for Saskatchewan’s legislative assembly.

First elected in 2011, he defeated six others in a lengthy process to select a new Speaker.

The job became available when former Speaker Corey Tochor resigned to seek a nomination, which he won this month, to run for a federal seat under the Conservative Party of Canada banner.

Docherty previously served as the Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport. He’s well-liked, and respected, by members on both side of the assembly.

His infectiously positive attitude, especially as someone who battles multiple sclerosis, is welcomed by many who see him daily around the Legislative Building.

An example of that was seen moments after going through the customary “reluctant” drag to the Speaker’s chair by the leaders’ of both parties — upon taking the chair, Docherty looked at the three-cornered, pirate-like hat adorned by the Speaker and joked, “This is why I ran.”

Before becoming an MLA, he had a long career in communitybased organizations. He worked at the Paul Dojack Youth Centre and was the director of Dales House, which offers services to troubled youth through Street Culture Kids Project Inc.

A holder of three degrees, he also taught at the University of Regina. An avid athlete, Docherty has played competitive lacrosse, rugby and handball and has competed in triathlons around the world.

He defeated the Saskatchewan Party ’s Glen Hart, Delbert Kirsch, Warren Michelson, Colleen Young and Eric Olauson and Danielle Chartier from the NDP to become the Speaker.