Global Affairs Delays Office Return for Most Staff

OTTAWA - Most employees at Global Affairs Canada will not be required to return to the office four days a week this summer, as ongoing renovations have limited available workspace in departmental buildings.

The decision comes amid a broader federal push to increase in-office presence for public servants. Earlier this year, the Treasury Board directed executives across the public service to work onsite five days per week starting May 4. For all other federal employees, the requirement is set to take effect July 6, mandating four days in the office each week.

Global Affairs Canada, however, faces unique challenges due to a multiyear renovation project that has reduced office capacity. Department officials stated that the full four-day mandate cannot be implemented immediately for the majority of staff. Instead, the policy will be phased in gradually for certain mid-level positions, including managers and deputy directors, beginning in July.

Under the adjusted plan, executive staff at Global Affairs must adhere to the five-day onsite requirement from May 4 onward. Other employees based in the National Capital Region, as well as those in regional offices across Canada, will continue...