Canadian MP Salaries & Wealth Disclosures: Ethics Guide

1. Base Parliamentary Compensation in Canada

Under the Parliament of Canada Act, MPs receive an automatic annual salary adjustment indexed to private-sector major wage increases determined by the Labour Program of Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).

As of April 1, 2024, the basic sessional indemnity for a Member of Parliament stands at $203,100 CAD. Members holding additional constitutional or parliamentary offices receive additional salary top-ups:

2. The Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner (CIEC)

Unlike backbench lawmakers in Westminster who register earnings periodically, Canadian MPs and ministers are bound by two statutory frameworks overseen by the independent Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner:

• The Conflict of Interest Code for Members of the House of Commons: Applies to all 338+ elected MPs. Mandates full disclosure of all assets, liabilities, real estate, and gifts within 60 days of election.
• The Conflict of Interest Act: Enforces stricter standards on cabinet ministers, parliamentary secretaries, and political appointees. Prohibits ministers from engaging in outside employment or operating private businesses while holding office.

3. Blind Trusts and Divestment Rules

Under Canadian law, cabinet ministers holding "controlled assets"—such as shares in publicly traded companies, commodities, or private commercial enterprises—cannot hold them directly. They must either:

1. Divest: Sell the assets in an arm's-length commercial transaction.
2. Place in a Blind Trust: Hand over administration to an approved corporate trustee where the minister receives no information about portfolio trades or holdings.

This structure was prominently seen with former Prime Ministers and finance ministers, where large family corporate entities (e.g. federal numbered corporations) were transferred into blind management.