House of Commons Debates

Question

Friday, May 18, 2001

GEOGRAPHIC REQUIREMENTS IN FEDERAL JOB POSTINGS

Mr. Pat Martin (Winnipeg Centre, NDP): Mr. Speaker, I am holding in my hand a job posting for what seems like a really great job in the federal public service at the customs and revenue agency for $52,000 a year. The only problem is that under the heading of who can apply it states that only persons residing within a 60 kilometre radius of Ottawa.

What if my son or daughter from Winnipeg were qualified and wanted to apply for that job or some kid in Halifax, Edmonton or Vancouver? Why does it matter where one lives if one is qualified for the job and willing to move?

Will the government commit to stopping this unfair hiring practice and giving every Canadian equal opportunity and access to those good public service jobs?

Mr. Alex Shepherd (Parliamentary Secretary to President of the Treasury Board, Lib.): Mr. Speaker, the geographic determination of the public service is something that has been there since 1992 and actually even before that. It allows the public service to reduce its cost in processing applications.

I think there is a general sense that it may no longer be applicable. I understand that the Public Service Commission is now investigating it and studying it. Hopefully the member could refer his concerns to Mr. Serson, who is the head of that commission.