Bruce Fanjoy, a Liberal MP representing the Carleton riding in Canada, has voiced his concerns regarding the federal government’s return-to-office policy for public servants, which mandates in-person attendance at least four days a week starting in July. He argues that there is no substantial evidence linking increased productivity to this approach, and instead warns that it could lead to higher pollution levels due to increased commuting. Fanjoy believes that the policy contradicts efforts to reduce government operating costs and enhance affordability for citizens.

The announcement of the return-to-office requirement follows a directive that executives must be back in the office full-time by May. The Treasury Board has communicated to deputy department heads that in-person work is essential for fostering strong teams and a collaborative workplace culture. However, Fanjoy's criticisms highlight a potential disconnect between government policy and the realities faced by public servants, especially those managing multiple responsibilities.

Fanjoy's advocacy reflects broader concerns about the impact of workplace policies on employee well-being and environmental factors. His call for a policy change points to the need for a more flexible approach that considers the diverse circumstances of federal workers and the overarching goals of sustainability and cost-efficiency within governmental operations.