News

Over the past few days, many of you have received letters informing you whether you qualify for the Early Retirement Incentive Program (ERIP). Unfortunately, the letters contained no details about the program itself. We have been advised that further information is expected in mid-January. 

In the meantime, if you have questions about your pension or retirement options, please contact the Pension Centre. And remember, the employees at the Pension Centre are GSU members who are doing their very best to support you during this period of uncertainty. 

At the same time, we learned, at the exact moment you did, that Workforce Adjustment (WFA) letters at PSPC are expected to be issued between January 12 and January 23, 2026. We have received no information about who may be affected, which branches or regions are involved, or the rationale behind these decisions. For SSC, we still do not know whether any WFA notices are planned. 

This absence of transparency is concerning to say the least. As clearly stated in the Collective Agreement, departments are obligated to consult with the union proactively, and we are pressing both PSPC and SSC to honour that obligation. You deserve clarity, respect, and meaningful engagement before any decisions are finalized. 

Internally, GSU is organized and ready. We have activated our WFA Committee, led by National Vice-President Martine Babcook, to coordinate our response, support members, and ensure you receive timely updates. 

Last summer, we also commissioned a study on the omnipresence of BGIS within PSPC. We are now actively using those findings to argue that before eliminating the jobs of our members, PSPC must first examine its contracting practices and seriously consider bringing work back in-house. There is simply no justification for reducing public service capacity while external contracts continue to expand. 

It remains incredibly disappointing and deeply concerning that, to this day, there is still no clear plan shared with us about what is to come. Nevertheless, we will continue to push forcefully for full information and meaningful consultation. 

Please stay connected with your Local. They are equipped to support you, answer your questions, and direct you to the resources you need. And above all, take care of yourselves and each other. This level of uncertainty takes a toll, and your well-being matters. Reach out if you need help; none of us should navigate this alone. 

In solidarity, 

Bruce