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Return to Office Linked to Surge in Public Servant Sick Days
Sick Leave on the Rise Among Federal Workers Post-Pandemic
New data from the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat reveals a steady increase in the number of sick days taken by federal public servants since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. During the remote work peak in 2020–21, public servants averaged just 5.9 sick days. But as in-person work resumed, that number climbed to 8.1 in 2021–22, 8.8 in 2022–23, and reached 9.2 days in 2023–24.
Experts suggest several factors behind the uptick. Dr. Alykhan Abdulla, a family physician, attributes the rise to increased exposure to illness, delayed access to healthcare, and mental health challenges. He also notes that during the pandemic, many employees worked from home while mildly ill, avoiding formal sick leave.
Departments like the Canada Border Services Agency and Correctional Service Canada consistently reported the highest sick leave usage. A recent survey indicated that employees in these agencies were among the least likely to recommend their workplace, hinting at deeper systemic issues.
As the federal government continues to push for more in-office work, the growing number of sick days may signal a need to reassess workplace health policies and support systems.
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