Quebec is implementing a significant workforce reduction plan aimed at improving government efficiency. This initiative, spearheaded by Treasury Board President France-Élaine Duranceau, targets the elimination of 3,000 additional positions by 2027. The announcement was made as part of a broader strategy to streamline state operations and reduce bureaucracy.
Job Reductions and Financial Goals
Initially, Quebec eliminated 2,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions in the last year. Now, the government plans to remove another 2,000 FTEs from the public sector by 2026-2027. In addition, 1,000 positions outside the public service will also be cut, impacting organizations such as:
- Quebec’s Infrastructure Agency
- Revenu Québec
- Public Markets Authority
This brings the cumulative total to a reduction of 5,000 FTEs over a two-year span, with anticipated savings of around $375 million.
Workforce Context and Strategy
Currently, Quebec’s public service comprises approximately 80,000 FTEs while employing around 70,000 public servants. Duranceau emphasized that the cuts will be conducted in a “ordered and surgical” manner across various ministries.
She noted that many positions would naturally become vacant due to retirements and resignations, with approximately 2,000 officials leaving the government each year for these reasons.
Recruitment Freeze and Work Hours
The Legault administration continues to enforce a hiring freeze while exempting sectors such as healthcare and education, as well as state-owned enterprises like Hydro-Québec. To further reduce working hours, the government is exploring the option for employees to voluntarily decrease their work week from 35 to 32 hours.
Return to Office Mandate
Starting in January, public servants must return to the office for three days each week, an increase from the current two-day model. Duranceau believes that this change will enhance collaboration and foster a stronger sense of community among employees.
She indicated that being physically present is essential for effective teamwork, remarking, “Humans are social creatures; it’s crucial to meet face-to-face rather than just through screens.”
Public Response and Concerns
The government’s effort to cut jobs and enforce a return to the office has raised concerns among senior officials about the impact on their missions. Critics are wary of how these significant changes may compromise public service delivery.
In a recent address, Premier François Legault reaffirmed his commitment to a “shock treatment” aimed at dramatically reducing bureaucracy, marking a shift after years of government expansion under his leadership.
