Experts responsible for overseeing Canada’s environmental well-being and safeguarding the nation from severe weather occurrences and industrial emergencies could potentially face layoffs by the Canadian government.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Mark Carney, the Liberal administration is currently implementing a reduction in the size of the public service. This move puts numerous jobs at risk, including 840 positions within Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC).
While civil servants await clarity on their employment status, concerns are being raised by scientists and labor representatives about the potential negative consequences these cutbacks could have on the health and safety of Canadians, as well as the country’s wildlife and ecosystem.
Retired ECCC scientist Christine Bishop emphasized the importance of maintaining such research efforts for the benefit of Canadians amid the government’s cost-cutting measures, highlighting the necessity to find alternative ways to streamline government operations.
‘Public Concerns Are Valid’
Carney’s initial budget, presented in November, revealed intentions to downsize the federal bureaucracy by 16,000 full-time equivalent roles over a three-year period.
ECCC is set to reduce its workforce by approximately 10%, equating to the elimination of 840 full-time positions, as indicated by department spokesperson Samantha Bayard in an email statement.
Despite these reductions, the department reiterates its commitment to fulfilling its mandate and advancing Canada’s standing in environmental protection, scientific research, weather services, clean technology, and sustainable development.
Expressing doubt about the department’s ability to slash hundreds of positions without compromising its core functions, Sean O’Reilly, president of the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada (PIPSC), stressed the potential repercussions on the well-being of Canadians and the nation’s safety.
PIPSC, representing a substantial number of public employees facing potential layoffs, including those at ECCC, is concerned about the impact on its members and the broader public.
O’Reilly emphasized the critical nature of the work carried out by ECCC staff, highlighting the necessity of maintaining essential services to safeguard against environmental hazards and ensuring public safety.