What is the proper way to raise a Point of Order?

Points of Order must be raised by stating "On a point of order" and obtaining the Chair's recognition, then specifically citing the rule being violated regarding the business currently before the House. The member must confine remarks to stating the procedural issue without elaboration on substantive matters.

Understanding the significance: Points of Order are a critical parliamentary mechanism that temporarily suspend proceedings to address procedural irregularities. Their proper use maintains the integrity of parliamentary process, but improper use can disrupt and delay proceedings. The requirement to specify the violated rule prevents vague or frivolous objections, while the focus on current business prevents raising historical grievances or anticipated future concerns. The Chair's final authority ensures disputes can be definitively resolved rather than becoming subjects of endless debate. Effectively, Points of Order function as the parliamentary equivalent of "calling a foul" in sports - they temporarily pause action to address a procedural violation, but are not meant for strategic advantage or substantive debate.

Key citations:

• Rule 258(1) provides the foundational framework: "Any member may at any time submit a point of order for the decision of the Chairman, but in doing so, shall confine himself to stating the point" - establishing both the right to raise points of order and the limitation to stating the point without extended argument.
• Deputy Chairman's ruling (29 August 2001) clarified a crucial requirement: "Without quoting the rule, you cannot raise a point of order" - ensuring specificity rather than general complaints.
• Chairman's ruling (8 September 1961) established a key limitation: "You cannot raise a point of order on a business that is not before the House" - preventing points of order on past or future business.
• Deputy Chairman's ruling (21 August 1984) confirmed that "There is no point of order on point of order" - preventing recursive procedural challenges that could paralyze proceedings.
• Deputy Chairman's ruling (22 August 1990) emphasized the Chair's gatekeeping role: "Point of order does not mean this becomes his birth-right" - establishing that raising points of order requires permission, not merely assertion.