Unions, public servants push back against Ontario’s full return-to-office order

Ontario’s mandate requiring provincial government employees to return to the office five days a week took effect Monday, drawing sharp criticism from unions and public service workers who say the policy is out of step with modern work realities and poorly planned.

JP Hornick, president of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU), described the directive as “a throwback to an earlier era,” arguing that a blanket return-to-office order ignores practical challenges such as inadequate office space, long commutes and the proven success of hybrid work models.

“A blanket mandate for five days a week makes no sense in this day and age,” Hornick said.

According to the union, not all employees are returning this week. Some agencies, including the LCBO, have delayed implementation due to space constraints. Hornick also noted that roughly 10,000 alternative work arrangement requests have been submitted by employees, with no indication so far that applications are being reviewed or approved.

The lack of consultation with workers and unions before the policy was imposed has raised further concerns.

“We should be asking who this is really benefiting,” Hornick said. “It’s certainly not benefiting Ontarians. The return-to-office order appears driven by pressure from corporate landlords rather than public interest.”

Premier Doug Ford announced the policy change in August, shifting away from the three-day hybrid model that had been in place since April 2022. At the time, Ford argued that a full return would boost productivity and support small businesses dependent on downtown foot traffic.

Hornick disputed that rationale, saying longer commutes and worsening congestion, particularly along Highway 401 will reduce efficiency and undermine businesses in suburban and regional communities that benefited when workers stayed local.

Speaking at an unrelated news conference, Ford dismissed office space concerns as “a little bump,” insisting there is sufficient space for most employees. He added that traffic conditions would be no worse than two years ago and pointed to future infrastructure projects, including expanded transit and a proposed Highway 401 tunnel.

Union opposition was visible Monday as members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) at Ontario Health atHome staged a provincewide day of action.

Care coordinator Jessica Bondoc said the hybrid model saved money and improved productivity. “We’re all crammed into offices again, and it’s not productive,” she said.

Team assistant Rita Poutsoungas echoed the frustration, questioning the purpose of the mandate after years of effective remote and hybrid work.

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