Now is the time to invest in, not dismantle, Canada’s public service infrastructure. While the new government promised “caps, not cuts,” it has simultaneously introduced a directive to cut as much as 15% over three years.
As the world navigates economic and environmental uncertainty, Canadians need public services they can rely on – services that have been the backbone of national strength and stability for generations.
We’re calling on the government to keep its promises and take steps to strengthen the public service because Canadians need security and stability now more than ever.
Reject cuts
Past austerity measures have undermined health care, environmental protections and public safety. Repeating those mistakes today will jeopardize critical public services, raise unemployment, and weaken our country’s ability to respond to crises, from inflation to climate disasters. Cutting so much so quickly would add another destabilizing shock to our country, but unlike the others, this one would be a deliberate choice.
The government can find savings by decreasing reliance on external consultants and getting rid of unneeded office space by expanding flexible telework arrangements.
Focus on long-term problem solving, not band-aid solutions
The government repeatedly applies short-sighted band-aids to deep structural issues. Instead, it must address the underlying structures, processes and culture flaws that enable issues to grow out of control in the first place. We’re calling for reforms that empower professionals and reward innovation and agility over risk avoidance.
Adopt AI responsibly
AI should support, not replace, public sector jobs. We’re proposing a Canada-wide strategy for regulating AI, protecting worker rights and maintaining democratic integrity.
Rein in outsourcing
The 2025–2026 budget estimates show spending on outsourcing professional services is on track to hit a record high. That’s unacceptable from a government that pledged to curb outsourcing, let alone one that is cutting full-time public sector jobs. We’re demanding real accountability: transparency measures to track and rein in outsourcing, smarter hiring practices, and renewed investment in upskilling the existing workforce. Cuts must start with consultants—not the public servants who deliver for Canadians.
Rebuild scientific capacity and integrity
Years of political interference and underfunding have taken a toll on public science. We need renewed investment in research, gender equity in STEM, and strong scientific integrity policies to ensure evidence-based decision-making at all levels of government.
Read the full report below for PIPSC’s detailed recommendations and analysis.