Carr explains rationale for pay increase

Estevan MLA Lori Carr is explaining why a scheduled pay increase for Saskatchewan MLAs went ahead on April 1.

The 1.7 per cent wage increase, which brought her MLA’s wage to $100,068 took effect April 1, which is the start of the provincial fiscal year. She also received a small increase for her cabinet minister’s allowance, which is an additional $50,947 to her MLA compensation. 

“It’s already written in legislation and it’s been there for years and years,” said Carr. 

Since it happens and it’s not something that can be turned down, Carr, Premier Scott Moe and other MLAs have decided to donate the wage increases to charity.

“It’s really tough, especially with everything going on with COVID-19 and stuff. I just thought that with that increase, the least I can do is give it back to my community in one way, shape or form.”

She hinted she might direct the money to an organization that supports those truly in need, such as the Estevan Salvation Army’s food bank. 

Carr said the MLAs couldn’t have negated the pay increase because the Saskatchewan Legislature hasn’t been sitting since March 18, and nixing the pay increase would have required legislation, which couldn’t be passed electronically.

She hasn’t had a lot of concerns about the wage increase.

“People really aren’t aware of it. They don’t know that it happens, because it happens automatically. It’s not something that’s widely advertised,” said Carr.