The usher of the black rod was traditionally the personal attendant to the sovereign. The usher of the black rod sits near the entrance to the main Senate chamber during Senate proceedings. The usher of the black rod is responsible for recording attendance in the Senate chamber, and supervises the Senate pages. The usher of the black rod is also responsible for strategic planning, information technology and coordination of protocol and exchanges for the Senate of Canada.
The name usher of the black rod comes from the ebony cane which the usher of the black rod carries as a symbol of authority. The black rod is used to rap on the doors of the House of Commons chamber to summon members of the House of Commons to the Senate chamber for the Speech from the Throne or for the Royal Assent of bills.
