A group of MHAs have cleared the first hurdle in paving the way for a whopping pay increase for our elected politicians.
The Members’ Compensation Review Committee made 32 recommendations a couple of months ago, including an increase in the base pay of about $25,000 a year. They already make close to $100,000—some earn more depending on things such as committee work and cabinet status.
In a close vote, the House of Assembly Management Commission opted to recommend to the House of Assembly that it accept the report in its entirety.
Two PCs and one NDP voted in favour, while three Liberals voted against.
Speaker Derek Bennett cast the deciding ballot to break a 3-3 tie.
He told the commission that the report was thorough and evidence-based, and that his choice as speaker is to have the discussion continue in the House of Assembly.
The report will likely go to the house for a vote in the fall.