Carney says the government will soon have a clearer understanding of plans for public servants’ return to the office

December 8,2025

RED FM News Desk

Prime Minister Mark Carney says his government will meet with public sector unions in the coming weeks to finalize details on updated return-to-office requirements for federal employees. 

“We’ll be working with public sector unions on how this will be implemented and what the appropriate levels will be. We should have a clearer picture over the next several weeks,” Carney told Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe during an event Monday. 

He said the extent of in-office work will likely vary based on seniority, job type and operational capacity. Carney added that he is a strong supporter of the public service, noting its importance as Canada faces economic and political challenges from the Trump administration. 

“At this critical moment, we need a strong public service, and we need public servants to have every tool they need—including offices and workspaces that help make their work meaningful and effective,” he said. 

Return-to-office rules have remained a contentious issue since COVID-19 shifted most federal workers to remote work in 2020. The latest update came in May 2024, requiring hybrid-eligible employees to be on site at least three days a week, while executives were required to attend a minimum of four days per week to better support staff. 

Speculation about further changes has circulated recently, with unions seeking clarity over whether employees will be required to return five days a week. 

Late last month, Nathan Prier, president of the Canadian Association of Professional Employees (CAPE), wrote to Treasury Board President Shafqat Ali requesting details on any new direction. Prier said last year’s policy shift “was a complete fiasco,” warning that unresolved issues—such as a shortage of office space—still stand in the way of increased in-office attendance.