27 September 2013
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced the appointment of Mr. J. Greg Peters as the Usher of the Black Rod, effective October 1, 2013.
“Mr. Peters’ wealth of experience in the areas of ceremonial and protocol operations with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, as well as his appreciation for our parliamentary institutions, will enable him to serve with distinction in the Senate of Canada,” said the Prime Minister.
Superintendent Peters has served with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for the past 32 years, most recently as Director of the Strategic Partnerships and Heritage Branch. In 2013, he became a Member of the Royal Victorian Order for his service to Her Majesty The Queen.
The Usher of the Black Rod is the most senior protocol officer in the Parliament of Canada. The Usher’s responsibilities include: serving as the personal attendant and messenger of Her Majesty The Queen and the Governor General of Canada when either is in Parliament; leading the daily Senate Speaker’s Parade; and directing all logistical, protocol and administrative details relating to official Parliament of Canada ceremonies, such as the opening of Parliament, the Speech from the Throne and Royal Assent.
