Public servants with diverse backgrounds, disabilities, or union involvement are facing a disproportionate impact from recent cuts within the passport service, as highlighted by the Union of National Employees (UNE). The UNE has raised concerns over what they deem as discriminatory practices that violate both the collective agreement and the Canadian Human Rights Act.
In a recent development, 800 contract workers nationwide, mainly in Quebec, were informed in May that their positions would be terminated by June. Of those affected, 350 individuals have contested their terminations through actions initiated by the UNE. Subsequently, in August, an additional 184 public servants were targeted for cuts, with 71 of them signing on to a group grievance.
According to the UNE’s national president, Alisha Kang, an analysis of the terminated employees revealed an overrepresentation of specific groups. Kang emphasized that individuals from these groups, despite being part of diversity initiatives supported by Canada, were among the first to be let go.
Of particular concern is the loss of employees who held public-facing roles and played a crucial role in assisting diverse Canadians with passport applications.
The UNE is urging the government to allow the terminated employees to fulfill their employment contracts. In response, Employment and Social Development Canada stated that decisions on cuts were based on workload projections for passport teams while ensuring responsible financial management. The department emphasized its commitment to retaining employees from equity-seeking groups to align with community representation.
Nicholas Marcus Thompson, CEO of the Black Class Action Secretariat, echoed the UNE’s concerns, stating that marginalized workers were not adequately protected in the recent layoffs. He criticized the government for what he perceived as systematic discrimination in selecting employees for termination based on factors like race, disability, national origin, or union affiliation.
The government, however, defended its actions, citing the necessity of the decisions made and offering support to affected employees during the transition period.