Assembly Business

– in the Northern Ireland Assembly at 12:00 pm on 11 October 2016.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Steven Agnew Steven Agnew Green 12:00, 11 October 2016

On a point of order, Principal Deputy Speaker. Since your appointment, you have been called many things during debates, including Mr Deputy Speaker. I am sure that, in each instance, the Member in question meant no disrespect.

The Principal Deputy Speaker will have her own view on the term "Madam", but I argue that it is perhaps somewhat outdated. Can we review the titles that we give to the Speaker, the Principal Deputy Speaker and the Deputy Speakers and look at removing gender-specific titles?

Photo of Caitriona Ruane Caitriona Ruane Deputy Speaker

My preferred title would be Príomh-LeasCheann Comhairle, or Principal Deputy Speaker, but it is up to the Members to decide what way they want to address me.