PSAC claims Ottawa bypassing negotiated processes, undermining union's role as bargaining agent
The federal government’s early retirement incentive program for public servants has prompted formal labour complaints from the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC), which alleges Ottawa is bypassing negotiated processes and undermining the union’s role as bargaining agent.
In complaints filed with the Federal Public Sector Labour Relations and Employment Board and reported by CBC/Radio‑Canada, PSAC is asking the government to “cease the unilateral implementation” of the program until its terms are negotiated with the union, CBC reported. The board is an independent tribunal that handles disputes over collective bargaining and alleged unfair labour practices.
According to the report, roughly 68,000 civil servants over the age of 50 were invited late last year to check their eligibility for the incentive. The federal government has forecast the program will cost $1.5 billion over five years, with about half of that amount expected in 2026, CBC reported.
PSAC argues that by offering separation packages directly to employees to reduce headcount, the employer is “bargaining directly with PSAC members on terms and conditions of employment” and “circumventing” the workforce adjustment provisions embedded in collective agreements. The union characterises this as “interference” with its statutory role and says it has been excluded from the...
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