Implementation of the Public Service Modernization Act: What has it changed for you?

Implementation of the Public Service Modernization Act: What has it changed for you?
March 6, 2006

The Public Service Modernization Act (PSMA) has resulted in a series of changes in public service labour relations through amendments to the Public Service Labour Relations Act (PSLRA), the Financial Administration Act (FAA), the recently created Canada School of Public Service (CSPS) and the Public Services Employment Act (PSEA).

As of December 31st, 2005 all of the amendments have been implemented. You may have already noticed changes in certain areas, such as the way in which competitions are now posted. Other changes, such as the fact that the Public Service Labour Relations Board now has the jurisdiction to consider human rights complaints, have not yet been as apparent.

For those members interested in further details on the changes brought about through the PSMA, we recommend you read through the Technical Briefing on the Act on the PSHRMAC website to get a better understanding of the changes in such areas as staffing, grievances, employment equity, official languages and much more.

In the upcoming months, ACFO will publish a series of helpful summaries to provide members with detailed information concerning aspects of your employment that have been modified by the passage of the PSMA. Please check the new “Workplace Issues” section on the ACFO website regularly for updates.

If you have any personal labour relations concerns, the ACFO Labour Relations Officers have been fully briefed on all changes that may affect your rights and they are ready to assist you. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to call a Labour Relations Officer at the ACFO National Head Office at 613-728-0695.

On behalf of the ACFO Board of Directors,
Tony Bourque, VP