Two policy grievances have been filed with the Federal Public Sector Labour Relations and Employment Board in response to Transport Canada’s failure to follow the workforce adjustment (WFA) provisions outlined in our collective agreements with Treasury Board. 

In the filing, PSAC and the Union of Canadian Transportation Employees (UCTE), outlined serious concerns about the department’s disregard for workforce adjustment processes. 

The first grievance challenged the employer’s decision to classify some workers as “impacted” instead of “affected,” despite acknowledging that these employees may soon face job loss. By not designating them as affected employees from the outset, the employer is denying them the rights and protections outlined in the Workforce Adjustment Appendix (WFAA). 

The second grievance addressed cases where the employer has informally told some employees that their services will no longer be required and has been assisting them in finding alternative “placements” — again, without officially designating them as affected. These actions circumvent required WFA processes, leaving employees without the full rights, transparency, and support they are entitled to. 

The employer is bound by the WFAA 

PSAC members have fought hard to negotiate strong protections against job loss through the WFAA, a critical part of our collective agreements with the federal government and its agencies. These protections were first established following PSAC’s 1991 national strike and have been expanded through successive rounds of bargaining. 

The WFAA exists to limit the harm of job cuts and to ensure that affected employees are treated fairly, transparently, and with dignity. It provides important protections like priority consideration for other positions, financial support, career transition services, and the right to be fully informed and consulted throughout the process. 

Both the union and the employer negotiated the WFAA and are bound by it. Transport Canada’s failure to uphold these provisions is a clear violation of that agreement. 

What needs to happen next 

In both grievances, PSAC-UCTE is demanding that: 

• All employees who meet the definition of “affected” under the WFAA be officially recognized and treated as such; 
• The employer issue a public statement acknowledging its breach of the collective agreements, and specifically the WFAA; 
• Revised, official notifications be provided to the union detailing the scope and timing of the WFA situations; and 
• Affected employees receive timely information and support, as outlined in the WFAA. 

PSAC-UCTE remains committed to holding the employer accountable, and ensuring all members are treated fairly, transparently, and in accordance with their collective agreements during workforce adjustments. 

Support is available for affected members 

If you believe you may be affected by workforce adjustment at Transport Canada — or have been told your position is no longer required — contact your local representative or your component — the Union of Canadian Transportation Employees — for support. You have rights under your collective agreement, and your union is here to help you navigate this process. 

Visit PSAC’s Workforce Adjustment page for all our WFA resources, including a guide to help you understand your rights and protections, a glossary, flowchart, frequently asked questions, and more.