Ghiz flip-flops on axing agency that sets MLA's pay

P.E.I. Premier Robert Ghiz has done an about-face when it comes to the idea of scrapping the agency that makes recommendations on salary increases for the province's MLAs.

Earlier this week, Ghiz suggested getting rid of the Indemnities and Allowances Commission.

He said the increases could instead be tied to the increases public servants get through their contracts with government.

But Thursday, following criticism from the Union of Public Sector Employees and the opposition, who said that would create a conflict of interest, Ghiz suggested exploring another idea.

"I floated an idea the other day tying it to the average of the unions. But, you know, we're open for suggestions," said Ghiz.

"But you want to know what may end up happening is we may just come back and say, the best solution could be what we already have. And that takes it out of the hands of the politicians. I don't think anybody thinks politicians should be deciding their own salary."

UPSE president Debbie Bovyer said it appears the premier listened to the union's concerns.

"It certainly pleases us that the premier and the MLAs are open to listening to the taxpayers of P.E.I., the unions of P.E.I. And we are pleased that they're taking a step back and looking for other ideas. But in the meantime, allowing the commission to do their work," said Bovyer.

Also Thursday, a private members bill that would roll back MLA salaries by three per cent was defeated in the house.

Opposition leader Steven Myers defended his bill, saying it was time for MLAs to show leadership in a time of fiscal restraint.