Outgoing UCP MLA suggests 20-per-cent pay cut
A 20 per cent pay cut to MLA salaries would send a valuable message to Albertans, says the UCP MLA for Drumheller-Stettler.
It comes down to “principle,” said Rick Strankman, who feels leadership is about setting an example and send a message to those who are still struggling in a tough economy and to civil servants.
He says a base pay cut could be put in place until the provincial budget is balanced, at which point it could be reassessed. Strankman made the topic part of his political platform to remain the UCP candidate in that riding, which he lost.
“It is hard to argue with the optics,” said Jim Groom, political instructor Medicine Hat College.
At election time suggestions such as this are popular with the electorate, said Groom. Compensation is usually established however, to “attract the right people.”
“I don't think anyone is in it for the money, said Groom, who noted a party that is touted to possibly be the next government generally attracts more contestants seeking to be the candidate. Other than the remuneration, the motivation can be the lure of an opportunity to be in government and make changes in the province, he said.
According to online information, in 2012 under the Conservative government of Premier Alison Redford, MLAs take-home pay annually was $134,000, cabinet ministers $201,000 and the premier $217,750.
Drew Barnes, UCP MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat, says this pay scale was a pay reduction under Redford and then there was a further 5-per-cent reduction by the NDP under Rachel Notley.
Barnes said he would vote “yes” for a 20-per-cent pay cut, if there was a formal motion.
Barnes said he believes the pay-cut suggestion sends a message of leading by example.
“It is important that elected officials show leadership,” said Barnes. “Per capita Alberta has the most expensive government right across the board.”
Barnes said he would take it one step further than the 20-per-cent pay cut. He believes there could be fewer ridings in the province and that in turn would reduce the total number of MLAs.
Peter Mueller, a contestant to be the NDP’s candidate in Cypress-Medicine Hat, calls Strankman’s suggestion a “courageous and selfless idea” that shows true empathy for those affected by the economic downturn.
“I may be naive but I don’t feel that most MLAs are in it for the money. Of course the counter argument is that a decent stipend attracts better people. I don’t agree,” said Mueller. “While times are tough I would support a reduction in the incomes of MLAs.”
Strankman, 65, was not successful in his bid to remain the UCP candidate in Drumheller-Stettler. He lost his seat in September to Nate Horner, 37.
The Medicine Hat News was not able to reach Michaela Glasgo, UCP candidate in Brooks-Medicine Hat, and Jim Black, Alberta Party candidate in Brooks-Medicine Hat for comment.