The return of federal civil servants to on-site operations gradually began on Monday, but is by no means everyone’s cup of tea.
According to the government, this return to offices will be beneficial for employees as it encourages collaboration between officials.
Opinions on this return to work are divided among workers.
“We’ve got used to the house and proved it works well too, and now we’re forced to return against our will. We have to change our habits that we had with daycare and daycare,” said one employee.
“It’s good for the local economy. I think it will bring more life,” said one worker.
“With the pandemic we’ve been working from home so we’ve had less interaction with people but other than that it’s good for morale,” commented another employee.
union challenge
Public sector unions are also opposing the government’s order, arguing that there is not enough space in federal buildings.
They also claim that returning to work is causing public health problems due to the spread of multiple respiratory viruses and that mandatory attendance is unnecessary.
“It doesn’t make sense for our employees to be able to work from home in the same way,” said Jennifer Carr of the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada.
“I think it’s a political decision by Minister Fortier, and I think it’s going to harm the services that the population is receiving,” said Alexandre Silas of the Federal Public Service Alliance.