Alberta government employees are set to resume full-time, in-office work beginning in February, as announced by the province on Friday. Since March 2022, Alberta Public Service (APS) staff have had the option to work remotely for up to two days per week under a temporary hybrid work policy. Approximately 12,600 government employees, representing about 44% of the workforce, were participating as of August.
The province stated in a news release on Friday that the hybrid work policy, initially implemented in response to the public health crisis, will be discontinued due to evolving circumstances and industry trends. Citing a similar decision made by the Ontario provincial government in August, Alberta is following suit by requiring employees to work in the office five days a week starting January 5, 2026.
While the APS is ending the hybrid work model, it remains committed to offering flexibility through other policies to accommodate operational needs. These include arrangements such as hours of work averaging, flexible hours, and modified work schedules for employees. Finance Minister Nate Horner’s office, responsible for overseeing the public workforce, expressed support for the move, emphasizing that full-time office work will enhance collaboration, accountability, and service delivery for Albertans.
Although the decision has drawn criticism from Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi, businesses in downtown Edmonton, where many government offices are situated, have welcomed the news. The downtown establishments, including restaurants and stores, have been adversely affected by reduced foot traffic since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. Quinn Phillips, the director of marketing and communications at the Edmonton Downtown Business Association, highlighted the positive impact of having more people in the downtown core during daytime hours, anticipating increased support for local businesses and a vibrant atmosphere.