PIPSC is raising serious concerns about the Canada Revenue Agency's announcement to terminate approximately 580 term positions by mid-December. These cuts can be seen as an indication of broader workforce adjustments across the public service.
"How can Canadians expect the same level of service quality with fewer hands?" says PIPSC President Jennifer Carr. "These aren't just numbers on a spreadsheet – these are skilled professionals who play vital roles in our tax system."
One of the key roles played by CRA workers is protecting revenue sources by going after wealthy tax cheats and off-shore tax havens. Ensuring those groups pay what they owe could eliminate any need for these devastating cuts.
"The CRA plays a vital role in tracking offshore tax havens and ensuring billionaires pay their fair share,” said PIPSC President Jennifer Carr. “It’s time to strengthen this capacity, not weaken it."
Also of concern is term positions traditionally serve as a crucial entry point for new talent into the public service. With the CRA facing a wave of retirements in the coming years, it is a troubling signal for the future of our workforce.
"Harper’s cuts in 2012 started with term positions – before expanding to eliminate 1,200 jobs," explains Carr. "If this happens again, it could create another lost generation of public servants just when we need them most."
It's time for the government to pause these cuts and engage in meaningful consultation with unions. It's time to build a sustainable workforce strategy that safeguards the quality of public services and secures the future of our public service.