Not a case of leadership by example

The provincial government is looked upon by Nova Scotians to lead by example. Repeatedly, the Conservative government has shown itself to be out of touch and lacking in leadership. The new year quickly proved nothing changes with this Conservative regime.
While the premier has been ranting about fiscal restraint, and universal belt-tightening, his actions have been the complete opposite in giving staff in his own office very generous pay raises. The fact of the matter is that Rodney MacDonald's fiscal policy is very much give and take. Take from hard working Nova Scotians and give to his political buddies. Under the bright lights of the media, the premier preaches restraint. Secretly he gives out raises to his pals. This is not leadership by example.
The premier tells health care workers and other hard working Nova Scotians that money is tight and will remain tight. Despite this, MacDonald boosted salaries in his office by as much as 15.7 per cent. In fact, the premier's chief-of-staff got a pay increase of 9.7 per cent. His salary jumped to $144,476.78. Stephen Greene, the premier's deputy chief-of-staff, picked up a 14.9 per cent increase, which moved his salary up to $137,920. Greene, of course, took the province's money and ran to the Senate. The premier's director of communications also got a huge salary increase of 15.7 per cent. His salary sits at $110,000.
In handing out these generous salary increases the premier has shown he is clearly out of touch with the hardships many Nova Scotians face. As Nova Scotians struggle to heat their homes, put food on their table, and provide for their families, MacDonald offers no leadership. Nova Scotians deserve better, and they deserve an explanation.
Nova Scotians know that the money used by the premier to give these pay increases won't have a major impact on the provinces' bottom line. They also know that in this case, the money isn't the primary issue. For almost three years, they have been expressing disappointment and concern with the decisions of Rodney MacDonald and the entire Conservative government. Nova Scotians have been looking for the premier to display leadership and focus.
Unfortunately, there's no sign of leadership and the premier's focus remains limited to taking care of those within his own office.
To contact me, call 465-3180 or e-mail kentbj@gov.ns.ca