Many public servants breaking remote work rules, data shows

Federal Government’s Remote Work Policy: Compliance and Challenges

Introduction to the Federal Mandate

The Canadian federal government has implemented a remote work policy requiring employees to work on-site at least three days a week. This mandate, effective since early September, applies to all Treasury Board employees, with executives expected in the office four days a week. The policy’s compliance has been tracked across various departments, revealing varying levels of adherence. This summary explores the compliance rates and management strategies, highlighting the challenges faced by departments in implementing this new work model.

Compliance at the Department of National Defence (DND)

The Department of National Defence, employing approximately 28,700 individuals, has shown the lowest compliance rate with the three-day rule. Data indicates that in January, only 31% of DND staff in the National Capital Region met the requirement, reflecting a decline from 70% in September and October. Nationally, compliance rates were marginally higher, at 60% in January and around 70% in earlier months. Spokesperson Andrée-Anne Poulin noted that compliance rates exclude leave periods and that about half of DND employees continued full-time on-site work throughout the pandemic. Managers are tasked with monitoring individual compliance, considering employee circumstances and accommodations.

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Compliance Trends

The CRA, with 59,000 employees, reported an improving compliance rate, reaching 80% in December. This upward trend from previous months suggests a successful transition to hybrid schedules. Spokesperson Benoit Sabourin highlighted the smooth progression, indicating most employees have adapted to the new model. The CRA’s approach demonstrates effective management and employee cooperation in meeting the mandates.

Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) Overview

ESDC, employing over 39,000, reported a consistent compliance rate of around 75% since September. This stability reflects an effective implementation strategy, maintaining a balance between on-site and remote work. The department’s ability to sustain compliance underscores the importance of clear policies and employee adaptability.

Smaller Departments’ Compliance Variability

Smaller departments exhibited diverse compliance rates. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) saw a significant increase, from 72% in September to 93% in January. Conversely, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) reported 73% compliance among non-frontline staff, while 60% of frontline workers continued on-site throughout the pandemic. These variations highlight the influence of departmental roles and operational needs on compliance.

Management and Policy Implementation

Managers play a crucial role in overseeing compliance, confirming expectations and ensuring adherence to hybrid models. The Treasury Board emphasized that penalties like reprimands or suspension could be enforced, though the Public Service Alliance of Canada noted no reported disciplinary actions. This approach allows for flexibility, considering individual circumstances and human rights obligations, reflecting a balanced enforcement strategy. The federal government’s policy continues to evolve, adapting to the post-pandemic work environment while maintaining operational efficiency.