Parks Canada announces workforce reductions amid budget cuts

Parks Canada has confirmed it expects to eliminate the equivalent of 500 full-time positions across the country as part of a workforce adjustment. Nearly 3,000 employees, representing approximately two-thirds of the agency’s workforce, have been notified that their roles are at risk.

According to an internal memo, an “affected” letter does not guarantee a layoff; it indicates a position may be discontinued, changed, or relocated. Employees may be moved to vacant roles or receive an “opting” letter, which signals a layoff. Interim president and CEO Andrew Campbell stated the agency is attempting to minimize involuntary departures by allowing more staff the opportunity to leave by choice.

The restructuring follows a federal expenditure review requiring Parks Canada to absorb nearly $145 million in budget reductions over the next three years. The Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) expressed concern that the cuts could impact the agency's ability to serve visitors safely.