Conservative MPs donate raises to charities amidst coronavirus outbreak

The Canadian Taxpayer Federation also urged parliamentarians to donate during a time of national crisis, which would result in $2.5 million in pay raises to charity.

As of right now, MPs John Brassard (Barrie-Innisfil, Ont.) Doug Shipley (Barrie-Springwater) and Scott Reid (Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston) will be donating. Andrew Scheer will also be donating his raise.

"Tomorrow, we MPs will get a big pay raise. It's automatic—a Chretien-era law we haven't repealed—and individual MPs cannot refuse it. But we get paid more than enough. I'll be following the example of @AndrewScheer: donating mine to a COVID-related charity in the riding," Reid said in a tweet.

“As individual MPs we can’t stop the legislated pay raises from happening,” said Barrie-Innisfil MP Brassard. “However we can decide what to do with it.”

Bill C-30 was passed in parliament 15 years ago and mandates salary allowance increases for MPs every year. Cancelling the raise would require new legislation, which would likely not be able to pass amdist more pressing coronavirus matters that don't involve MPs losing out on thousands of dollars.

“We recognize that many people are losing their jobs as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and stress levels are increasing in our communities,” said MP Shipley. “It’s an extremely challenging time for our local charities, including the Women and Children’s Shelter and the Salvation Army, as they continue helping people in need."

MP Brassard told Blacklock's Reporter the raises were "embarrassing," stating: “I fundamentally disagree with the fact Members of Parliament are giving themselves a raise.”

“There are people all over this country who are finding it awfully difficult to make ends meet ... Boy, would they love to give themselves a raise.”