Tory supports MPP salary hike

Progressive Conservative Party Leader and Caledon MPP John Tory supported the recent move by the provincial Liberals to increase the salaries of MPPs.

“For some time now, members from different sides of the House and the Integrity Commissioner have identified MPP compensation as an issue that needs to be addressed. We believe compensation should be commensurate with the responsibilities and comparable to other

positions in the community so that we can attract the best and brightest to Queen’s Park.

“I have met people ranging from a single parent nurse, to a mayor, to an experienced businessperson who wanted to run for public office but wouldn’t in large part because they couldn’t afford to do so at current compensation levels. These stories are not uncommon, which is why I think MPP compensation needs to change and why our Caucus will be supporting the legislation introduced (today) by the McGuinty government.

“This is a difficult, but important issue, and there is never a good time to raise the issue of MPP remuneration. However we need to ensure compensation for provincial members is set at a fair and appropriate level in order to attract the most able and experienced representatives possible to run for public office,” he said.