The media are alive with reports of outrage this morning over a proposal to give Ontario’s MPPs a 25% increase in salary. The raise will see MPPs receive a base salary of $110,000. The Ontario salaries will be capped at 75% of federal MPs salary.
Why Ontario’s politicians should earn 25% less than their federal counterparts is beyond my imagination. Ontario’s federal and provincial constituencies are identical in geography and demographics. We want equally competent representatives in both domains and I could readily argue that the issues and challenges in provincial jurisdiction (health care, education, environment, social services) have a priority with voters that equals or exceeds federal issues. Moreover, the 25% variance ignores the absence of a pension after serving in the Ontario Legislature (the pension was abolished during the Harris interregnum) and the generous living and constituency office allowances.
MPPs remuneration is even more disturbing when compared to salaries in business and the MUSH (municipalities, universities, schools and hospitals) sector. The many hospital CEOs make twice as much as the Premier should be of concern to Ontario's if they want to attract the best candidates to public office.
While politicians should not “be in it for the money”, neither should the pay packet prohibit qualified and dedicated persons, who also need to make a living sufficient to provide a family with a decent middle-class lifestyle and put something aside for retirement, from seeking elected office.
So here’s to you, Ontario MPPs. I’d be behind you for a 50% increase and restoration of a decent pension, Don’t be timid.
Why Ontario’s politicians should earn 25% less than their federal counterparts is beyond my imagination. Ontario’s federal and provincial constituencies are identical in geography and demographics. We want equally competent representatives in both domains and I could readily argue that the issues and challenges in provincial jurisdiction (health care, education, environment, social services) have a priority with voters that equals or exceeds federal issues. Moreover, the 25% variance ignores the absence of a pension after serving in the Ontario Legislature (the pension was abolished during the Harris interregnum) and the generous living and constituency office allowances.
MPPs remuneration is even more disturbing when compared to salaries in business and the MUSH (municipalities, universities, schools and hospitals) sector. The many hospital CEOs make twice as much as the Premier should be of concern to Ontario's if they want to attract the best candidates to public office.
While politicians should not “be in it for the money”, neither should the pay packet prohibit qualified and dedicated persons, who also need to make a living sufficient to provide a family with a decent middle-class lifestyle and put something aside for retirement, from seeking elected office.
So here’s to you, Ontario MPPs. I’d be behind you for a 50% increase and restoration of a decent pension, Don’t be timid.
