Speaker told Assembly members to ‘wear smart clothes’
Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in the Northern Ireland Assembly have been defrocked by the Speaker.
On Tuesday, during the Stormont plenary, Edwin Poots reminded them that the dress code was “smart”.
He said, “Some of you have a very loose definition of smart and I would encourage members to dress smartly when it comes to the House.”
We are not demanding that people, gentlemen, wear a shirt and tie, but we are asking (you) to be well dressed and ready to work.”
This comes a day after the inauguration of United States President Donald Trump, which saw US Senator John Fetterman arrived in hoodie, shorts and trainers,
Poots also asked members to bring cups and cans of coffee: “I see everything up here. People may not realize it, but I’ve seen people bring cups and cans of coffee, etc., over the last few weeks Is.
“The only thing you are allowed in this building is a glass of water which is provided for you.
“This is not a committee meeting. This is a plenary session of the Parliamentary Assembly. And all other characters should not be in this part of the building.”
Mr Poots, who was wearing a tartan tie for Burns Night, also said some MLAs were not acknowledging him as he left the House, saying “that’s not following the code”.
A 2014 leaflet given to legislators titled “Rules of Behavior and Etiquette in the House” warns them, “Although there is no exact dress code, the way you dress will demonstrate respect for the House. The Speaker expects “Members will wear business attire.”
However, the rules have now been relaxed, meaning men no longer have to wear a jacket and tie.
