Saskatchewan's 22nd lieutenant-governor sworn in

After a series of oaths and symbolic presentations Saskatchewan's Premier declared W. ThomasMolloy as the twenty-second lieutenant-governor of Saskatchewan.

The event took place in the chamber at the Legislative Building in Regina on Wednesday.

"Friends, I want you to know that i greatly value the extremely important duties assigned to me," said Molloyin hisfirst speech as lieutenant-governor.

Wednesday's ceremonies included a vice-regal salute, Molloyinspecting an honour guard anda flyoverby 15 Wing Moose Jaw.

The lieutenant-governoris the representative for the Queen in Saskatchewan and gives royal assent to bills passed by legislature.This position is not controlled or supported by anypolitical party.

• Saskatoon's Tom Molloy named new Lieutenant Governor for Saskatchewan

Premier's address

Premier Scott Moe acknowledgedMolloy's background as a lawyer and negotiator.

"If we were to enumerate the traits required for lieutenant-governor there would be perfect alignment with your attributes," said Moeaddressing him as empathetic and patient.

Past and future hopes

Molloy, an author and former chancellor of the University of Saskatchewan, is from Saskatoon.

He has negotiated Aboriginal land claims on behalf of the federal governmentand the governmentsof British Columbia, Ontarioand Saskatchewan.

He said one of his most memorable negotiating moments includesthe Nisga'aTreaty,the first formaltreatysigned by a First Nation in British Columbia.

Molloy replaces Vaughn Solomon Schofield, whoheld the position since 2012.

The federal government appointed Molloy in January.

According to the Canadian constitution, he will serve as lieutenant-governor for at least five years.

He said that during his term he hopes to help eliminate racism and better understand the impact that Saskatchewan people have on the environment and planet as a whole.