Speaker Responds to RCMP Investigation Report

NOTE: A full list of changes to MLA benefits and compensation is available at https://www.gov.ns.ca/news/docs/2011/feb/MLA-Expenses-update-2011.pdf .

The wording of Section 22 and 23 of the House of Assembly Act can be viewed at https://www.gov.ns.ca/news/docs/2011/feb/Section-22-and-23-of-the-House-of-Assembly.pdf

House of Assembly Speaker Gordie Gosse thanked the RCMP for its thorough investigation into expenses filed by Members of the Legislative Assembly today, Feb. 14.

In February 2009, Auditor General Jaques Lapointe released a report about MLA expenses and subsequently forwarded names to the RCMP.

According to the House of Assembly Act, a person can remain a member of the legislative assembly while proceedings take place. Should there be a conviction, the member must be removed from the House of Assembly.

"If there is a conviction of a sitting member of the House, I am compelled to abide by the law, in accordance with the act," said Mr. Gosse.

Government has made a number of changes since July 2009, including eliminating the $45,000 retirement allowance and $2,500 tech fund, reducing monthly allowances and posting all MLA expenses online.