What you need to know about the public service return-to-office rumours

"A return-to-office five days a week is rumoured for the federal workforce, and details point to a much more structured approach than anything public servants have seen since before the pandemic. An internal Treasury Board document obtained by La Presse lays out the clearest picture of how far the government may be prepared to go. The document indicates a stepped rollout to tighten attendance expectations across the core public service and introduce a more rigid schedule in federal offices."

"A PowerPoint slide leaked on December 1, seeming to outline the Treasury Board's plans, ignited speculation about a possible move toward a five-day in-office work week. According to La Presse, an internal government document suggests a full-time mandate would be in place by 2027. Senior officials also reportedly believe more in-person work could improve collaboration and productivity."

"The Canadian Association of Professional Employees - one of Canada's largest public sector unions - has asked the Treasury Board to address "persistent rumours" of a full-time return as early as 2026, while the Public Service Alliance of Canada's president, Sharon DeSousa said she has seen a leaked slide circulating online but has received no confirmation from the government. She called the idea "reckless, costly and completely out of touch," citing deteriorated office buildings and wider concerns about morale, productivity and recruitment."

Federal plans indicate a phased return-to-office policy that could culminate in a five-day in-office workweek by 2027. An internal Treasury Board document describes a stepped rollout to tighten attendance expectations across the core public service and to introduce more rigid schedules in federal offices. A leaked PowerPoint slide sparked speculation about the timeline and rationale, with senior officials saying more in-person work might improve collaboration and productivity. Major public sector unions have demanded clarity, warned of consequences, and criticized the proposal over deteriorated office conditions, morale, productivity and recruitment concerns. The Treasury Board has not confirmed a full-time mandate.

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