PSAC members at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) participated in a national bargaining conference October 28-30 to discuss and prioritize bargaining issues and elect their bargaining team. The current collective agreement expires in December, and a new round of talks is about to begin.  

Over the last few months, we’ve asked members at CFIA to tell us what their priorities are for this next round of bargaining.  CFIA members have outlined clear priorities for the next round of negotiations reflecting the real experiences of members across Canada – from inspectors and scientists to administrative professionals – and focus on fairness, respect, and better working conditions for all.  

Fair pay 

Members want to see compensation that keeps pace with the cost of living and reflects the critical, often specialized work done across the agency. Ensuring equitable pay structures, fair premiums, and improvements to allowances remains a key focus to help recruit and retain skilled professionals. 

Job security 

CFIA members are calling for stronger job security and fair treatment for all employment types. Members emphasized the need to address long-term precarity among term employees, ensure fair transfer practices, and reinforce employment transition protections. 

Work-life balance 

Improving work-life balance is top of mind this round of bargaining. Members want more predictable schedules, protections for shift workers, and flexibility that reflects the realities of modern work. Proposals also highlight the importance of limiting after-hours work and creating healthier workloads. 

Leave 

CFIA members are seeking improvements to a wide range of leave provisions to better reflect the changing needs of workers and their families. Mental health, caregiving, and equity were strong themes throughout members’ input. 

Health and Safety 

Members identified the need for stronger protections around workplace health and safety, as well as more flexibility in where and how work is performed. Access to remote work, fair treatment across roles, and proper recognition of preparation time were key concerns. 

Respect on the job 

CFIA workers want to ensure that the collective agreement reflects values of inclusion, equity, respect, and professional growth. Strengthening education and joint learning opportunities, protecting employee rights, and ensuring fair discipline and consultation processes all emerged as priorities. 

Next steps 

CFIA members also elected the bargaining team during the bargaining conference, These workers from across the country will be announced shortly and will represent PSAC members at CFIA once bargaining begins in 2026. Make sure you keep your contact information up to date and sign up for our latest bargaining news.