On July 6, the date when mandated return to office four days a week came into effect, USJE and PSAC members took action at several Correctional Service of Canada sites to denounce a policy that they feel is unjustified and disconnected from the situation in the field. This mobilization followed other actions held in previous weeks, in particular on June 23 at the Guy-Favreau complex, where members from the Parole Board of Canada (PBC) and Justice Canada gathered along with the Regional Vice-President for Quebec (RCMP-Justice-PPSC-CSC Community-PBC), Annie Blanchette.
This measure will have concrete consequences for members, such as increases in travel costs and reduction of the flexibility that allowed for a better balance between professional and personal responsibilities. Yet, remote work has demonstrated that it is efficient for carrying out administrative duties and has contributed to staff well-being and psychological health.
This action is part of the PSAC campaign “Return to office: no plan, no evidence, no space,” which questions a decision imposed without demonstrating any clear advantages either for workers or for public services. Members took the opportunity to reaffirm their opposition to a policy that adds a meaningless burden to their daily lives and does not take into account the concerns expressed by staff.
The June 23 mobilization also took place while negotiations with Treasury Board are still difficult. Faced with offers that don’t meet members’ expectations or recognize their contribution, the message was unmistakeable: workers deserve respect, fair working conditions and a genuine desire to bargain in good faith.
Call to Action
RTO4 is not the end of this fight. Members are encouraged to stay engaged with their union, participate in workplace actions, and support PSAC’s campaign efforts. Visit Return to office: no plan, no evidence, no space to see what actions can be taken to challenge the mandate.
By standing together, we can continue to push for a modern, evidence-based approach to work that respects public service workers and better serves Canadians.