As the federal government’s new three-day in-office mandate officially took effect on Monday, thousands of union members took to the street in protest, determined to defend telework and the future of work in Canada.
PSAC members united with members from the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada (PIPSC), the Canadian Association of Professional Employees (CAPE), and the Association of Canadian Financial Officers (ACFO) at nationwide protests to contest the government’s policy and fight for a fair approach to telework that puts workers first.
Telework has become more than just a temporary solution, it’s a proven model that enhances productivity and the well-being of workers. It helps workers balance their personal lives with their jobs, reduces our carbon footprint, and creates a more inclusive public service.
“Telework isn’t just a trend, it’s the future of work and the next frontier of workers’ rights,” said PSAC National President Sharon DeSousa. “We’ve seen firsthand how telework improves peoples’ lives and makes our public service more inclusive and responsive to the needs of Canadians. That’s why we’re committed to fighting for a future that puts workers first.”
It’s clear that PSAC members have serious concerns about this new mandate:
- Over 20,000 registered for our virtual telework town halls;
- More than 40,000 signed our petition in its first week;
- And 65,000+ filled out our telework survey.
Our members are engaged, fired up, and ready to take this fight to the next level.
In the coming weeks, we’re kicking off a national telework campaign in partnership with PIPSC, CAPE, and ACFO. Fueled by a $1 million investment —a clear demand from members at our national convention — the campaign will drive the fight for fair, flexible, and future-focused telework policies that truly work for workers.
We know that #RemoteWorks. Together, let’s make sure the government knows we won’t back down.
Take action now:
- Sign the petition: Demand the repeal of the three-day in-office mandate.
- Take our survey: Share how the mandate impacts your work and life.
- File a grievance: Hold the government accountable for violating the telework agreement.
- Read our FAQs: Get answers to your most pressing questions about telework and the government’s mandate.
- Use our digital tools: Show solidarity with virtual backgrounds, social media images, and #RemoteWorks posters.
- Spread the word: Start a conversation on social media and encourage coworkers to take action, too.
This article was first posted on the PSAC website.
