Public service job losses in Manitoba remain uncertain, union says

The Public Service Alliance of Canada says some Manitoban federal workers received notices that their jobs are affected, while the federal government confirmed a Portage la Prairie research farm will close.

A union representing federal public employees says it is trying to determine how many Manitoba jobs are at risk because of pending cuts to several federal agencies. The Public Service Alliance of Canada said some Manitoban workers received layoff notices but were not given details on how many positions will be eliminated or when changes will take place. The federal government has announced plans to reduce about 16,000 public employees across Canada and is offering buyouts, early retirement packages and voluntary departures. The government confirmed an Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada research farm in Portage la Prairie will close and indicated changes to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency include adjustments to program delivery and operations. Current facts: - The Public Service Alliance of Canada reports layoff notices were sent to some Manitoba federal employees. - Marianne Hladun, the union's Prairie regional executive vice-president, said employees were told their jobs were affected but were not given numbers or timing. - The federal plan involves shedding about 16,000 public employees nationally, with buyouts and voluntary departures offered. - Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada confirmed the Portage la Prairie research farm will close, and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency described cuts as targeted changes to program delivery and operations. Summary: The notices have prompted union efforts to clarify the scale and timing of potential job losses in Manitoba and highlight that scientific and inspection roles are among those named as affected. Undetermined at this time.