Union urging government to repeal requirements around in-office work
The Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) has launched a petition calling for the repeal of a federal mandate requiring public service employees to work in the office three days a week. The union argues that the current policy undermines the benefits of telework and disrupts the progress made in modernizing workplace practices.
In less than two weeks, the federal government’s new hybrid work policy will take effect, requiring public servants to be on-site a minimum of three days a week, and four days for executives, a CTV News report highlighted.
Despite pushback from workers, the government insisted this move will improve organizational performance, team culture, and career development.
The PSAC’s petition criticizes the Liberal government’s directive, noting employees are being required to return to office settings only to participate in virtual meetings. The union has contended that this model is inefficient and disregards the advantages of telework, including improved work-life balance, heightened productivity, and increased job satisfaction.
CTV News noted a survey conducted by the union revealing that 91% of its members strongly oppose the mandate, and 75% are willing to take action against it.
In July, PSAC decided to withdraw from the federal government’s meetings on back-to-the-office mandates, claiming the government did not want to collaborate.
PSAC petition urges flexible approach to telework
The petition is urging the government to replace the blanket mandate with a flexible, case-by-case telework framework. This shift, according to PSAC, would align with previous agreements and support the evolving nature of work.
The union has also sought to incorporate this revised telework policy into future collective bargaining agreements.
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In addition to signing the petition, PSAC is mobilizing its members to participate in various actions. These include:
- completing a survey about their experiences with the in-office mandate
- filing grievances to address alleged breaches of telework agreements
- using digital assets like virtual meeting backgrounds and social media posters to raise awareness.
The petition will be presented directly to government officials, including Treasury Board President Anita Anand, on September 9. Signatories will also receive follow-up communication about the petition delivery and further steps.
PSAC is one of Canada’s largest unions, representing nearly 240,000 workers across various sectors, including federal departments, Crown Corporations, and community services.