Tax Union Opposes Full-Time Office Return for Public Employees
The National Union of Tax Employees has expressed strong opposition to a proposed full-time return to the office for public employees. This policy is set to commence on January 1, 2026. Union President Marc Brière criticized the decision as a covert method to drive employees away from their positions.
Concerns Over Mandatory Office Return
According to internal documents from the Treasury Board Secretariat, managerial staff will be required to work onsite full-time starting in early 2026. Public employees will transition gradually, moving to a four-day work week in July 2026, and returning to five days by January 2027. Currently, employees are obligated to be present in the office three days a week.
Union’s Position on Productivity
- Marc Brière argues that productivity remains consistent whether employees work remotely or in the office.
- The union points out that commuting creates additional challenges, including traffic congestion.
- Many office spaces are already crowded, leading to complaints from employees.
Brière noted the growing issue of space shortages, particularly at the Revenue Agency, which recently closed an office in Ottawa and moved operations to a nearby site. These changes exacerbate existing problems with workspace availability in cities like Montreal, Quebec, Ottawa, and Shawinigan.
Financial Implications of the Office Shift
The union president highlighted the potential financial burden of this policy, which could lead to astronomical costs for public funds. He emphasized that ministries and the Revenue Agency are currently incurring substantial expenses on new office furniture and supplies.
As public employees brace for these upcoming changes, the union remains committed to voicing its concerns and advocating for the needs of workers in this evolving workplace landscape.
