A parliamentary petition advocating for changes to Canadian labour laws to guarantee three remote work days per week for federally regulated employees has amassed more than 16,000 signatures. The petition specifically targets those whose jobs are primarily computer-based, seeking to amend Part III of the Canadian Labour Code.
Scope and Impact of the Petition
The proposed changes would affect workers in federally regulated industries such as telecommunications, banking, and crown corporations, but not federal public servants or parliamentary staff. The petition argues that hybrid work enhances productivity, reduces absenteeism and turnover, and supports caregivers, people with disabilities, and rural workers.
Government Response and Context
This petition comes amid ongoing debates about federal employees returning to the office. On May 4, executives were required to be back full-time, with other employees facing a four-day in-office requirement starting July 6. Provincial public servants and City of Ottawa employees have also returned to full-time office work.
The petition also calls for employers to provide written, evidence-based justification if they require more than two days in the office, and for the labour minister to impose penalties for non-compliance. It emphasizes that such changes would position Canada as a global leader in modern, sustainable, and inclusive work practices.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
Highlighting climate goals, the petition cites Statistics Canada estimates that hybrid work could cut 9.5 megatonnes of greenhouse gas emissions. It also claims that arbitrary return-to-office mandates undermine work-life balance, inclusion, and competitiveness.
Public service unions have voiced strong opposition to the government's remote work policy changes. The Public Service Alliance of Canada shared the petition on April 29, urging workers to sign and send a clear message to Parliament.
The petition was initiated by Tania Carreira and sponsored by Liberal MP James Maloney. Notably, sponsorship does not imply support for the proposal. Carreira and Maloney were not available for comment.
