Public servants from diverse backgrounds, individuals with disabilities, and those engaged in union activities are facing a disproportionate impact from recent cuts to the passport service, as reported by the Union of National Employees (UNE). The UNE has initiated two grievances challenging what they deem to be discriminatory practices violating the collective agreement and Canadian Human Rights Act.
In a recent development, approximately 800 contract workers nationwide, predominantly in Quebec, were informed in May that their positions would be terminated by June. Of these, 350 employees contested their terminations through UNE’s legal action. Subsequently, in August, an additional 184 public servants were affected by cuts, with 71 of them joining a group grievance filed by the union.
Over 42% of the terminated employees believe they were unfairly treated, according to UNE’s national president, Alisha Kang. Kang highlighted that terminated individuals from certain groups were disproportionately represented, despite Canada’s professed commitment to diversity initiatives.
The union is advocating for the completion of the employment contracts of terminated public servants, urging the government to reconsider its workforce reduction decisions. Employment and Social Development Canada emphasized its commitment to retaining employees from equity-seeking groups, stating that the cuts were made based on workload projections and fiscal responsibility.
Nicholas Marcus Thompson, president of the Black Class Action Secretariat, expressed serious concerns over the situation, alleging that marginalized workers were targeted in the layoffs. He disputed the government’s claims of safeguarding marginalized employees and criticized the selection process for layoffs based on factors like race, disability, national origin, or union affiliation.
In response to the layoffs, the government clarified that 134 employees out of 250 affected passport workers were being laid off, deeming the decision necessary. The department assured support for affected employees during the transition period.
