The head of the federal public service has indicated that the government’s plan to reduce spending and increase investments will lead to the elimination of 40,000 jobs as various programs are downsized or discontinued. Michael Sabia, the clerk of the Privy Council, conveyed this message in a memo distributed to federal employees following the announcement of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s inaugural budget.
Sabia emphasized that the government’s commitment to slashing $60 billion over five years is a significant figure that will necessitate sacrifices. He acknowledged the tangible impact of these reductions on individuals serving the nation and their families, stating that the consequences are substantial and should not be understated.
To meet the targets set by the Carney administration, certain programs will undergo reductions or constraints while others will be entirely terminated, Sabia explained. Approximately 40,000 fewer positions will be required within the public service, including ongoing reductions already in progress. However, these job cuts are contingent on the approval of the federal budget by Parliament in the upcoming weeks.
The clerk assured that decisions regarding layoffs and early retirements will be promptly executed to minimize prolonged uncertainty, with provisions in place to support those affected by the workforce reductions.