Quebec Aims to Cut 3000 More Government Positions by 2027 for Increased Efficiency
Quebec is taking significant steps to streamline its public sector. The provincial government, led by Treasury Board President France-Élaine Duranceau, plans to eliminate an additional 3,000 government positions by 2027. This move is part of a strategy aimed at enhancing efficiency within the state’s bureaucratic framework.
Details of the Reduction Plan
This reduction follows the recent removal of 2,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions in the last year. Duranceau’s goal for the upcoming 2026-2027 fiscal year includes cutting another 2,000 FTEs within the public sector. Additionally, 1,000 non-public sector positions will be slashed from organizations such as the Société québécoise des infrastructures (SQI), Revenu Québec, and the Autorité des marchés publics.
- Total Reduction: 5,000 FTEs over two years.
- Expected Savings: $375 million.
- Current Public Sector Staff: Approximately 80,000 FTEs for 70,000 employees.
Approach to Efficient Staffing
Duranceau emphasized that these cuts will be executed in an organized and careful manner. Most job reductions will occur naturally, as around 2,000 civil servants leave their positions each year through retirement and resignations. She explained that leaving positions unfilled translates to fewer working hours.
To control staffing levels, the Legault government is maintaining its hiring freeze. Health and education sectors will remain exempt from these cuts, as well as revenue-generating state-owned enterprises like Hydro-Québec and Loto-Québec.
Flexible Work September
As part of the changes, starting in January, civil servants will be required to return to the office for three days a week, increasing from the current two days. Duranceau believes this adjustment will promote improved collaboration and a stronger sense of belonging among employees. She noted, “Humans are social beings, so it’s vital to ensure face-to-face interactions rather than solely virtual communication.”
Future Initiatives
In pursuit of reducing working hours, the government is also exploring the option for employees to voluntarily shorten their workweek from 35 to 32 hours. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to a thorough analysis of public sector operations and bureaucracy, allowing ministries and agencies to evaluate their needs intelligently.
Despite the ambitious plans to streamline government operations, concerns remain regarding the potential impact on public services. Previous reports highlighted apprehensions among high-ranking officials about the implications of these sweeping cuts on their missions and capabilities.
The government of Quebec is hoping that these strategic changes will ultimately enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of state operations while navigating the complex dynamics of modern public service. As more details emerge, the focus will remain on achieving these goals responsibly and sustainably.
