Workforce Adjustment and Term Positions

CEIU members provide critical public services. We process pensions, assist newcomers, and support Canadian families and businesses.

Now more than ever, solidarity and collective support are essential. As we navigate political and economic uncertainty, we must stand together to protect not only our jobs but also the vital services our communities rely on.

Our priority is to support one another through these challenges. By staying informed and engaged, we strengthen our ability to advocate for fair workplaces and a resilient public service.
We encourage you to attend information sessions, learn about your rights, and connect with your union for support—because together, we are stronger.

Cuts to public services

In the 2023 federal budget, the Government of Canada announced that departments would have to reduce spending. These cost-cutting measures mean that departments are looking for ways to reduce their budgets.  

In addition to these ongoing cuts, the Liberal government under Mark Carney is calling on all departments to find 15 per cent in “savings” between 2026 and 2028.

For more information see:

Workforce Adjustment

Workforce adjustment (WFA) is the term used to describe a process for reducing indeterminate positions in the core federal public service, agencies, and separate employers.

Indeterminate employees have job protections in place thanks to union members who fought hard during a 1991 national strike. Since then, WFA has been expanded and enhanced through successive rounds of collective bargaining.

These protections are enshrined in the Workforce Adjustment Appendix (WFAA), a critical component of our members’ collective agreement.

CEIU has developed resources and held information sessions to inform members of their rights under the WFAA.

Resources:

Term positions

Federal departments are implementing a “stop the clock” on term rollovers. This means that term employees will no longer be able to accumulate time towards obtaining an indeterminate job until otherwise notified. Some departments are also cutting or not renewing term positions.

CEIU is advocating for our members who are term employees at national tables with the employer.

  • Representing our members on departmental workforce adjustment committees
  • Pushing for comprehensive supports including financial planning assistance, internal and external job opportunities, and enhanced mental health resources for members
  • Tracking and monitoring job cuts in collaboration with PSAC
  • PSAC provided training to CEIU staff on workforce adjustment
  • Shop stewards from union locals across the country participated in CEIU training to support members

  • Update your contact information: Make sure your membership information is up to date so we can contact you.
  • Know your rights: for indeterminate employees, understand your WFA entitlements and how to speak to the employer
  • Access job opportunities: the employer has a responsibility to provide career and financial resources to those impacted by WFA
  • Take care of yourself and your fellow union members: we have called on the employer to expand mental health supports beyond the Employee Assistance Program. We have also put together a list of additional resources for you.