Petition to review income assistance legislation in British Columbia

The first increase in 15 years to people on income assistance in British Columbia was in 2007 in the amount of $50.00 per month, while the MLA's voted themselves a, reported, 28.78% increase that same year.

MLA's salaries are $101,859.00 per year with additional compensation of 50% of base salary if they hold a portfolio. The premier's salary is an additional $91,673.00 per year plus 50% of base for holding a portfolio, Total salary approximately $250,000.00 per year. increases have been received annually according to consumer price index with exception of 2010 and 2011, (source Provincial Comptroller).

With the electorate basically being their employer, when was the last time you could give yourself a raise?

With the recent world financial crisis people, dependent on legislated assistance are increasingly financially stressed to keep roofs over their heads or food on the table.

Current assistance for accommodation for housing for a single person is $375 per month; living allowance $235 per month. This is unreasonable and long overdue for review to reflect actual costs.