Alberta government ending hybrid work policy for public servants starting in February

EDMONTON — Alberta’s government is ending its hybrid work policy, mandating all provincial employees return to the office full-time starting early next year.

A statement issued by Alberta’s deputy ministers’ council Friday says the policy stemmed from the COVID-19 pandemic and allowed some employees to work from home two days a week.

The council said the decision is in response to “changing circumstances” and follows the Ontario government’s decision to end its own hybrid work policy earlier this year.

According to the statement some 12,600 employees, or roughly 44 per cent of all Alberta provincial employees, had hybrid work arrangements as of this past summer.

The statement adds that the province is still committed to being a flexible work environment, and other policies like modified work schedules and averaging hours remain accessible options for employees.

“Medical accommodations will continue to be considered under the duty to accommodate policy,” it says.

Finance Minister Nate Horner’s office, which oversees the public workforce, said Friday that it had no role in the decision but that it is supportive and expects full-time office work will “strengthen collaboration, accountability, and service delivery for Albertans.”

“The hybrid work model introduced during COVID-19 was always intended as a temporary measure to maintain operations during an unprecedented time,” Horner’s office said.

“Flexibility for individual cases will still exist where needed, depending on the job and worker circumstances.”

Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi questioned if the move will accomplish what Horner’s office said it would.

“The (United Conservative Party government) continues to disrespect workers,” he said in a statement.

Public servants will be required to work in office full time starting in February.

The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees, which elected a new president Friday, did not immediately respond to questions.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 24, 2025.

Jack Farrell, The Canadian Press