A Conservative Member of Parliament says he will refuse a scheduled salary increase for federal politicians this April, arguing that it would be inappropriate at a time when many Canadians are struggling with rising living costs.
Mike Dawson, who represents the Miramichi Grand Lake riding in New Brunswick, announced on Feb. 10 that he plans to reject the 4.2 percent pay raise set to take effect on April 1. In a letter addressed to the acting clerk of the House of Commons, Eric Janse, Dawson described the increase as “distasteful,” given the economic challenges facing many households.
“At a time when everyday Canadians are struggling to keep up with the rising cost of living, I cannot in good conscience accept the pay increase of nearly $10,000 which every Member of Parliament is set to receive,” Dawson wrote.
Under federal legislation, MPs’ salaries are automatically adjusted each year based on the average percentage increase in base-rate wages resulting from major private-sector settlements. The final indexed rate for 2025 has not yet been published by Employment and Social Development Canada.
Last year’s adjustment saw backbench MPs’ annual salaries rise from $203,100 to $209,800. Cabinet ministers, the Speaker of the House, and the Leader of the Opposition received increases from $299,900 to $309,700. The Prime Minister’s salary climbed from $406,200 to $419,600.
In his letter, Dawson referenced his previous career as a drywaller and contractor, noting that he has firsthand knowledge of the financial pressures many workers face. He formally requested that payroll administrators take the necessary steps to ensure he does not receive the increase.
The announcement drew praise from Franco Terazzano, director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, who described Dawson as a “true champion for taxpayers.” Terazzano urged other MPs to follow suit and forgo the upcoming raise.
The annual salary adjustment for parliamentarians is set to take effect on April 1, as outlined in federal law.
