A new report is urging the federal government to implement a system for reporting on public servants deemed to be underperforming and to establish concrete measures for tracking productivity across the public service.
Key Recommendations for Public Service Accountability
The report, which was released on December 16, 2025, argues that greater transparency and measurement are needed to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of Canada's federal bureaucracy. A central proposal involves the government providing regular reports that would highlight instances of underperformance among its employees.
This initiative is framed as a move towards enhanced accountability, suggesting that clear metrics and reporting could help identify areas for improvement and ensure that taxpayer funds are being used effectively. The call for action comes amid ongoing discussions about modernizing the public service and adapting to new work environments.
Focus on Productivity Measurement
Beyond identifying underperformance, the report strongly emphasizes the need to develop and implement robust methods for measuring productivity. This goes beyond simple output metrics, suggesting a need for a nuanced understanding of how effectively the public service delivers programs and services to Canadians.
The push for productivity measurement reflects broader trends in both the public and private sectors, where data-driven management is increasingly common. Proponents believe such measures can lead to better resource allocation and improved outcomes for the citizens the government serves.
Context and Potential Implications
While the report presents its recommendations as tools for improvement, the proposal to publicly report on underperforming staff is likely to generate significant debate. Critics may raise concerns about employee morale, the potential for subjective assessments, and the complexities of measuring performance in diverse public service roles.
The federal government has not yet issued an official response to the report's specific recommendations. The document adds to a long-running conversation about public service reform, accountability, and how best to manage one of the country's largest workforces. Its suggestions will likely be examined by policymakers, public service unions, and governance experts in the coming months.
