The head of the federal public service has announced that the government’s plan to reduce spending and increase investments will lead to the elimination of 40,000 jobs as programs are adjusted or discontinued. Michael Sabia, the Privy Council’s clerk, conveyed this information in a memo to federal employees following the unveiling of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s inaugural budget.
In the memo, Sabia acknowledged the significant impact of the government’s commitment to cut $60 billion over five years, emphasizing that sacrifices will be necessary. He expressed concern for the individuals and families affected by these decisions, recognizing the genuine consequences of such measures.
Sabia detailed that in order to meet the targets set by the Carney administration, certain programs will undergo scaling down or termination. Approximately 40,000 positions within the public service will be affected, with some reductions already in progress. However, these job cuts are contingent upon the approval of the federal budget by Parliament later this month.
Assuring swift decision-making to minimize uncertainty, Sabia stated that support will be provided to those impacted by layoffs or early retirements once the implementation of cuts commences.
