“Usher of the Black Rod”

Jurisdiction: Canada Canada

An officer of the Senate who supervises the administrative duties for the opening of Parliament and escorts the Speaker of the Senate into the Chamber. The Usher of the Black Rod also delivers messages to the House of Commons when its Members' attendance is required in the Senate Chamber by the Governor General or a deputy of the Governor General. The name "Black Rod" comes from an ebony rod which symbolizes the position.

Source: Glossary of Parliamentary Terms for Intermediate Students, Parliament of Canada