Maori Party supports wage restraint for elected leaders

As debate continues today over pay rates for MPs and elected members of local government, the Maori Party says its MPs should not be granted a pay rise.

“The Maori Party caucus says it is not right for us to accept a pay rise while our constituents are facing serious economic hardship,” said co-leaders Pita Sharples and Tariana Turia.

“We support the Prime Minister’s call for a moratorium on MPs' pay rises, until economic conditions stabilise for our people.

“The Remuneration Authority has reiterated that its decisions on pay rates cannot be determined by politicians, they must be based on the factors specified in law.

“While we accept that, we are simply saying, as recipients of the remuneration, we do not want higher pay right now. Surely the Authority can take that into account, without a change in the law being necessary.

“We know that taxpayers pay our salaries, and we do not want to be part of any increased burden they have to bear during hard times. Pay rises should go to those most in need – workers and families who are struggling.

“Whatever the rules and regulations say, we want to put our position on record,” said Dr Sharples and Mrs Turia.

“We think that such a little sacrifice is a small price to pay for political leadership, and we hope others might express the same view,” they said.