The Canadian Taxpayers Federation is calling on Nova Scotia politicians to reject the proposed review and increase to legislative salaries and benefits.

“With many Nova Scotians struggling to make ends meet, a pay hike for politicians is unacceptable," said Devin Drover, CTF Atlantic Director. “All MLAs should oppose any attempt to lift the present freeze to their own salaries and benefits.”

Recent media reports revealed that Premier Tim Houston is open to lifting the freeze on MLA pay, office budgets and living expenses that have been in place since 2015.

Legislative Speaker Danielle Barkhouse has 60 days from the recent swearing-in date to decide whether to strike an independent committee to examine member's remuneration.

The base salary for an MLA is $89,234.90, which is over $17,000 higher than the median income of all Nova Scotia households.

“At a time when the province is running budget deficit after deficit, MLAs must reject this costly proposal,” Drover said. “MLAs should be focused on saving taxpayer money, not padding their own pockets.”