Usher of the Black Rod in the Senate

Kevin MacLeod

Role of the Usher of the Black Rod The name Usher of the Black Rod comes from the ebony cane that Black Rod, as the individual is called by the Speaker of the Senate and the Senators, carries as a symbol of authority. The Usher of the Black Rod is a floor officer of the Senate and is responsible for security in the Senate Chamber. The Black Rod also leads the daily Speaker's Parade to and from the Senate Chamber.  The Usher of the Black Rod carries out a 600 year old parliamentary tradition as the personal attendant and messenger of the Sovereign or Her Representative when either person is in Parliament. The Usher directs all protocol, logistical and administrative details regarding openings of Parliament, including the Speech from the Throne ceremony and acts as coordinator of ceremonial and protocol details related to State Funerals and the Investiture of a Governor General in the Senate, in concert with government departments and carries out ceremonial duties related to Royal Assent of bills. He is also a member of the Welcoming Party for all visiting Heads of State and Heads of Government.  In addition to the ceremonial duties that are steeped in hundreds of years of history, the Usher of the Black Rod is a member of the senior management team of the Senate administration and is responsible for the Page Program.