The Pay Equity Commissioner has officially began reviewing PSAC's bad-faith complaint against the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). We are challenging CFIA’s refusal to post the Pay Equity Plan and its ongoing attempt to secure a one-year extension on a plan that had already been finalized and was ready to be posted.  

The Pay Equity Committee, made up of employer and union representatives, completed its work in line with the law: it selected the methodology, shared a draft plan, reviewed employee feedback, and finalized a plan ready for release.  

Delaying this process blocks approximately $15.9 million in pay equity payments owed to workers in jobs predominantly held by women. By refusing to post the plan, CFIA is choosing to perpetuate unfair pay gaps that have already been identified and quantified. 

By pursuing this complaint, PSAC is pushing back against an employer’s attempt to sidestep clear pay equity obligations. When a completed plan is intentionally delayed, it sends a troubling message: that closing known pay gaps is optional and can be held back when the cost becomes inconvenient. 

PSAC will not stand by while CFIA attempts to avoid its legal responsibilities. Pay equity is a basic right, and these payments are meant to compensate workers for years of being underpaid.. 

Take action to defend pay equity: 

• Speak out: Raise your voice against the CFIA’s stalling tactics 
• Demand accountability: Call on the employer to respect the Pay Equity Committee’s work and follow all legal timelines. 
• Support your colleagues: Share this update to keep the pressure on and ensure these payments are delivered immediately.