Mr. Speaker, the government has just introduced amendments to the MPs' pension plan but in reality has just changed troughs and given it a new look.
This new plan is still much more lucrative than what a person in the private sector would receive. Basically it is nothing more than smoke and mirrors.
The new package is still fully indexed to inflation, something 78 per cent of the public does not enjoy. The accrual rate is twice the amount allowed for under the Income Tax Act and is therefore illegal.
How can the government in good conscience ask overtaxed Canadians to tighten their belts while doing exactly the opposite itself?
I ask every MP in the House to join hands with the rest of Canada and make a sacrifice by opting out of this hideous MP pension plan which still says to Canadians: "We will line our pockets and tough luck to you". I also applaud every MP who is opting out, especially my colleagues in the Reform Party.
When the budget is tabled later today, Canadians will not forget that less than a week ago it was the government that chose above all else to take care of its own.