Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe takes part in a new conference, in Ottawa on Monday, Dec. 5, 2022. Sutcliffe is among those celebrating the return of federal workers to offices.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick
Ottawa’s mayor is among those celebrating the return of federal workers to offices.
The Treasury Board’s decision to stick with hybrid work means public servants will be back to in-person work two to three days a week starting early next year, which is expected to be a boon for businesses and public transit ridership alike.
In a news release on Thursday, mayor Mark Sutcliffe said getting clarity from the federal government on the future of its workforce is “critical” for the local economy.
Local businesses in downtown Ottawa are welcoming the news, saying the increase in foot traffic will help their operations.
Kevin McHale, the executive director of the Sparks Street Business Improvement Area, says business owners are “cautiously optimistic.”
However, he says many are eager to find out what the federal government plans to do with its office spaces and whether it plans to downsize.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 16, 2022.
