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Feds Launch Early Retirement Program for Public Servants After Delay
The program aims to reduce the federal public service by 10% by 2029 and offers immediate pension with no penalty to eligible workers aged 50 or older, officials said.
On Friday, the federal government launched the application portal for The Early Retirement Incentive following C-15's Royal Assent on Thursday, removing the final legal barrier to the program's implementation.
Part of the Budget, the program aims to manage workforce reductions through voluntary departures, targeting a decrease in public sector workers from a 2023-24 peak of almost 368,000 to about 330,000.
Employees aged 50 with at least 10 years of employment and two years of pensionable service may apply to retire without penalty; the federal government predicts $1.5 billion in five-year costs and about $82 million in annual savings.
The Public Service Alliance filed a policy grievance, arguing the program circumvents obligations under collective agreements; National President Sharon DeSousa stated such efforts must be "negotiated, lawful and protect workers rights."
Treasury Board President Shafqat Ali confirmed the incentive emphasizes "voluntary, structured options to retire early with clarity and predictability," with information sent to about 68,000 potentially eligible public servants.