Four major federal employee unions will soon launch a $1 million campaign in favor of telework, as part of their fight against the forced return to the office three days a week.
The Public Service Alliance of Canada, the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada, the Canadian Association of Professional Employees and the Association of Canadian Financial Officers say they are fighting for “a suitable, flexible and future-oriented telework policy.”
The idea of a national campaign on the subject had been approved by members at the Alliance’s national congress.
Since September 9, all federal civil servants have had to come to work in the office three days a week, under a directive from the federal Treasury Board.
These unions argue that teleworking facilitates work-family balance, improves people’s quality of life and reduces the carbon footprint thanks to less vehicle traffic.
During its last negotiations for the renewal of its collective agreements, the PSAC had agreed with the Treasury Board on letters of understanding relating precisely to teleworking.
Since the directive was amended, PSAC has filed grievances and unfair practice complaints, in addition to inviting its members to file individual grievances.
The Federal Court recently agreed to hear the complaint on the merits, rejecting the federal government’s motion to summarily dismiss it or stay its hearing until the other complaints are heard.
“Teleworking is not just a fad, it’s the future,” PSAC National President Sharon DeSousa said in a message to her members.