CAPE is calling on the federal government to implement the International Energy Agency’s recommendations to curb oil demand and combat soaring prices and fuel shortages in response to the conflict in Iran. The agency’s number one recommendation is to work from home wherever possible.
“Canadians are suffering right now, and the IEA has provided a solution to ease this pain,” said CAPE President Nathan Prier. “Carney must break his silence and explain why he is intent on enforcing a return-to-office order for the country’s largest employer when remote work could save billions of taxpayer dollars, improve productivity, and reduce emissions and transportation network pressures.”
During the COVID-19 crisis, federal public servants transitioned to fully remote work almost overnight. Their ability to adapt and continue to deliver for Canadians during a global emergency was praised. Productivity across the public service increased during this period.
The IEA report, released on March 20, comes as the Iran conflict has triggered the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market. Canada is one of the founding members of the IEA.
