New Brunswick Conservative MP Declines Parliamentary Salary Increase
In a notable act of political principle, New Brunswick Conservative Member of Parliament Mike Dawson has publicly refused to accept an annual 4.2% pay raise scheduled for April 1. Dawson stated he "cannot in good conscience" accept the increase, valued at nearly $10,000, while many Canadians face significant challenges in affording basic necessities.
Leadership and Courage Praised by Taxpayer Advocacy Group
The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) has strongly commended Dawson's decision. Franco Terrazzano, the CTF's federal director, issued a news release praising the MP's actions.
"Dawson is showing real leadership and proving he is a true champion for taxpayers by turning down the upcoming MP pay raise," Terrazzano said. "It takes courage to stand alone and do the right thing and Dawson is showing real guts to turn down this pay raise."
Terrazzano emphasized that while Dawson might be isolated on this issue within the House of Commons, he has the support of countless taxpayers across the nation.
Dawson's Personal Stance: "Not About the Money"
In a detailed Facebook post, Dawson clarified his motivations, asserting that financial gain was never his objective for entering politics.
"I did not get into politics for the money," Dawson wrote. He explained that he operates a successful business, which his sons now manage, allowing him to focus on his parliamentary duties.
Reflecting on his 2025 campaign, Dawson noted that discussions with constituents covered many topics, but "not a single door" involved conversations about increasing salaries for himself or other federal politicians.
Formal Request to House of Commons Administration
To formalize his refusal, Dawson submitted a letter to the House of Commons, requesting that the payroll and benefits administration make the necessary arrangements to exclude him from receiving the raise.
"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 in the letter. He described it as "frankly distasteful" for parliamentarians to receive raises while many working Canadians have not seen substantial wage increases in decades.
Public Opinion Strongly Aligns with Dawson's Position
Dawson's stance resonates with a significant majority of Canadians, according to data highlighted by the CTF. A 2025 poll conducted by Leger and released by the federation revealed that 79% of Canadians oppose a parliamentary pay raise, with 59% expressing strong opposition.
This public sentiment underscores the growing concern over the cost-of-living crisis and the perceived disconnect between political compensation and the economic realities faced by ordinary citizens.
