**** CNS Media Release
Province Prevents Pay Increases for MLAs
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Significant pay raises for MLAs, recommended by an independent review panel, will not proceed.
The government introduced amendments to the House of Assembly Act today, July 26, to prevent the binding recommendations from taking effect.
“Now is not the time to increase compensation for MLAs,” said Minister Druhan. “Nova Scotians are facing record high inflation and many people are having a hard time financially. As elected officials, our compensation needs to reflect the current state of the economy.”
MLAs have been receiving an annual base salary of $89,234 since 2014.
Despite the independent review panel finding that the Premier’s compensation is fair and reasonable and should not be adjusted, Premier Tim Houston has chosen to voluntarily reduce his salary by $11,246.01. This is the first time in recorded history where a sitting Premier has reduced his compensation.
“We won’t be distracted from the important work we are doing on behalf of Nova Scotians – improving access to healthcare, making child care more affordable, creating more affordable housing and making sure Nova Scotians have the services and supports they need,” said Minister Druhan. “These are the issues our Premier cares about. He continues to show incredible leadership and focus on the issues important to Nova Scotians.”
Quick Facts:
— this action prevents MLAs from receiving a 12.6 per cent pay increase recommended by an independent remuneration panel
— the independent review was conducted by university professor Ajay Parasram and lawyers Burtley Francis and Kyle MacIsaac
— the independent panel released its report on July 19
Additional Resources:
Bills tabled in the legislature are available at: https://nslegislature.ca/legislative-business/bills-statutes/bills/assembly-64-session-1
