About 320 jobs are expected to be cut at the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) as part of what the government calls a “post-pandemic recalibration.”
PHAC confirmed to CTV News Ottawa that a review of its programs will lead to job losses so the department can match its spending with the budget approved for the 2026-27 fiscal year.
A spokesperson for the agency said the cuts are needed to focus resources on government priorities. This means some programs will be reduced or shut down.
“While the exact number isn’t confirmed yet, we expect around 320 positions will be cut,” the spokesperson explained. “These decisions are not being made lightly. Our goal is to stay sustainable while continuing to have a strong impact on public health.”
PHAC says it will continue to protect public health, prevent diseases and injuries, and promote health and well-being.
The agency currently employs about 3,372 people, down from more than 4,200 in 2024, and just over 2,300 in 2020.
The Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada (PIPSC), the union representing many federal workers, criticized the cuts. Union president Sean O’Reilly said they could make Canada less prepared for the next health crisis. “These cuts will put more pressure on the healthcare system and take away important programs, like vaccination, chronic disease prevention, and suicide crisis support,” O’Reilly said.
The news of PHAC layoffs came the same day Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne said the government is planning “adjustments” to cut costs. He argued the goal is to make government more efficient while still delivering services to Canadians.
