Amid all the pushback over raises for federal MPs comes a report that says MHAs in this province are long overdue for raises themselves.

The report, entitled ‘How We Value Democracy,’ was prepared by the Members’ Compensation Review Committee and delivered to the Speaker’s Office yesterday.

It recommends a $25,000 raise for all MHAs, which would bring their current base salary to $120,00 from $95,000.

The report says that would cost the treasury almost $1 million, adding the province can afford it given its “strong economic and stable fiscal position.”

Conception Bay South PC MHA Barry Petten says MHAs should not have any input into compensation packagers and rates of pay. He would rather the issue be handled by an outside authority.

Petten would prefer to see their pay reviewed in a similar fashion as a judge whereby an independent process takes place, complete with recommendations.