2020 Public Service Employee Survey Results for Invest in Canada

The results of the 2020 Public Service Employee Survey (PSES) are presented according to the numerical order of questions, grouped by section theme as they appeared in the questionnaire. Results are not shown when there is no historical comparison, or when there is an insufficient number of responses.

Micro-organizations are those that have fewer than 150 employees at the time of the survey. In order to protect the confidentiality of employees, demographic breakdowns of results are not provided for individual micro-organizations; results by demographics are provided only for all micro-organizations combined. Further, results for individual micro-organizations are provided only if the number of respondents to a question is sufficient to ensure the confidentiality of respondents.

Note: Due to rounding, percentages may not add to 100. Results have been adjusted for non-response to better represent the target population. Therefore, percentages should not be used to determine the number of respondents within a response category. The results for "Most positive or least negative answers" and "Least positive and most negative answers" are calculated by removing the "Don't know" and "Not applicable" responses from the total responses.

Survey Themes

Top of page

My Job

Question 1. I have the tools, technology and equipment I need to do my job.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 37 45 4 10 3 0 0 83 13 188350
2020 Micro-organizations combined 49 39 3 8 2 0 0 88 10 934
2020 Invest in Canada 59 33 2 3 3 0 0 92 6 64

Question 2. The material and tools provided for my work, including software and other automated tools, are available in the official language of my choice.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 76 17 3 2 1 0 1 94 3 187710
2020 Micro-organizations combined 79 15 2 1 1 1 0 95 3 932
2020 Invest in Canada 83 9 2 3 3 0 0 92 6 64

Question 3. My physical environment (e.g., office, workspace) is suitable for my job requirements.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 39 38 9 10 3 0 0 78 14 188104
2020 Micro-organizations combined 47 36 7 7 2 0 1 84 9 934
2020 Invest in Canada 38 41 11 6 5 0 0 78 11 64

Question 4. I get the training I need to do my job.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 33 39 12 11 4 0 1 73 15 187496
2020 Micro-organizations combined 43 34 11 8 4 0 1 78 12 930
2020 Invest in Canada 58 20 14 2 6 0 0 78 8 64

Question 5. I have the information, training and equipment I need to ensure my health and safety at work.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 45 36 9 7 3 0 0 81 10 186897
2020 Micro-organizations combined 54 32 6 6 2 0 0 86 7 923
2020 Invest in Canada 56 28 11 0 5 0 0 84 5 64

Question 6. I have support at work to balance my work and personal life.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 45 31 10 8 5 0 0 77 13 187730
2020 Micro-organizations combined 56 26 8 6 3 0 0 82 10 931
2020 Invest in Canada 57 25 10 5 3 0 0 83 8 63

Question 7. I get a sense of satisfaction from my work.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 40 38 11 7 4 0 0 78 11 188177
2020 Micro-organizations combined 48 34 9 6 3 0 0 83 8 935
2020 Invest in Canada 50 33 11 3 3 0 0 83 6 64

Question 8. I receive meaningful recognition for work well done.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 33 36 14 10 7 0 0 69 17 188210
2020 Micro-organizations combined 44 35 10 6 5 0 0 79 11 934
2020 Invest in Canada 48 33 11 5 3 0 0 81 8 63

Question 9. I have clear work objectives.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 35 41 11 9 3 0 0 76 13 187222
2020 Micro-organizations combined 43 38 10 6 3 0 0 81 9 929
2020 Invest in Canada 51 29 16 3 2 0 0 79 5 63

Question 10. I know how my work contributes to the achievement of my department's or agency's goals.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 48 36 8 4 2 0 0 85 7 187373
2020 Micro-organizations combined 62 28 4 3 2 0 0 91 5 930
2020 Invest in Canada 68 19 11 0 2 0 0 87 2 62

Question 11. Overall, I feel valued at work.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 36 36 13 9 6 0 0 71 16 187805
2020 Micro-organizations combined 47 31 11 6 5 0 0 78 11 934
2020 Invest in Canada 55 26 13 5 2 0 0 81 6 62

Question 12. I am proud of the work that I do.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 54 32 9 3 2 0 0 86 5 186823
2020 Micro-organizations combined 61 27 8 2 1 0 0 88 3 931
2020 Invest in Canada 65 23 10 2 2 0 0 87 3 62

Question 13. I have opportunities to provide input into decisions that affect my work.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 34 37 13 10 6 0 0 71 16 187289
2020 Micro-organizations combined 48 32 9 7 4 0 0 80 11 930
2020 Invest in Canada 63 21 10 3 3 0 0 84 6 63

Question 14. I am encouraged to be innovative or to take initiative in my work.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 37 33 15 8 6 0 0 71 14 187895
2020 Micro-organizations combined 49 29 10 7 4 0 0 79 11 933
2020 Invest in Canada 65 25 5 3 2 0 0 90 5 63

Question 15. I have support at work to provide a high level of service.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 36 39 12 8 4 0 0 75 12 186744
2020 Micro-organizations combined 46 34 10 6 3 0 0 80 9 928
2020 Invest in Canada 63 20 11 5 2 0 0 83 6 64

Question 16. Overall, I like my job.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 46 36 10 5 2 0 0 83 8 188122
2020 Micro-organizations combined 53 32 9 4 2 0 0 86 5 932
2020 Invest in Canada 63 27 9 0 2 0 0 89 2 64

Question 17. I can complete my assigned workload during my regular working hours.

Survey year Organization Always/almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 37 32 16 8 5 0 1 70 13 187208
2020 Micro-organizations combined 39 31 18 9 4 0 0 70 12 928
2020 Invest in Canada 34 27 23 8 8 0 0 61 16 64

Question 18a. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... constantly changing priorities.

Survey year Organization Always/Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 10 24 35 20 9 1 1 30 34 188088
2020 Micro-organizations combined 9 18 33 25 14 1 1 39 27 935
2020 Invest in Canada 6 16 44 17 17 0 0 34 22 64

Question 18b. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... lack of stability in my department or agency.

Survey year Organization Always/Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 8 15 26 29 19 2 2 50 23 187380
2020 Micro-organizations combined 6 13 23 29 26 2 2 57 19 933
2020 Invest in Canada 2 11 17 31 39 0 0 70 13 64

Question 18c. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... too many approval stages.

Survey year Organization Always/Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 13 21 31 20 11 2 2 32 36 187586
2020 Micro-organizations combined 7 10 25 29 25 2 2 56 18 931
2020 Invest in Canada 2 13 23 34 28 0 0 63 14 64

Question 18d. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... unreasonable deadlines.

Survey year Organization Always/Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 7 14 30 29 17 1 2 48 21 187162
2020 Micro-organizations combined 4 8 26 36 25 1 1 62 12 931
2020 Invest in Canada 0 9 27 38 27 0 0 64 9 64

Question 18e. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... having to do the same or more work, but with fewer resources.

Survey year Organization Always/Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 12 19 27 23 15 1 2 40 32 187650
2020 Micro-organizations combined 8 16 25 25 22 2 1 49 25 934
2020 Invest in Canada 8 9 20 27 34 2 0 62 17 64

Question 18f. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... high staff turnover.

Survey year Organization Always/Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 8 14 24 27 19 4 3 50 24 187087
2020 Micro-organizations combined 6 11 21 28 28 3 2 60 18 930
2020 Invest in Canada 0 5 16 23 52 3 2 79 5 64

Question 18g. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... overly complicated or unnecessary business processes.

Survey year Organization Always/Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 12 20 32 20 12 2 2 33 34 187395
2020 Micro-organizations combined 6 8 27 30 24 2 1 57 15 929
2020 Invest in Canada 0 11 21 33 33 2 0 68 11 63

Question 18h. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... unreliable technology.

Survey year Organization Always/Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 7 17 36 26 12 1 1 39 25 187956
2020 Micro-organizations combined 4 9 28 31 26 1 1 58 14 934
2020 Invest in Canada 0 0 13 25 61 2 0 87 0 64
Top of page

My Work Unit

Question 19. I am satisfied with how interpersonal issues are resolved in my work unit.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 28 30 17 8 6 6 4 65 16 187998
2020 Micro-organizations combined 36 28 14 6 6 5 5 71 13 933
2020 Invest in Canada 48 28 16 2 2 2 3 80 3 64

Question 20. In my work unit, every individual is accepted as an equal member of the team.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 49 28 9 8 5 1 0 78 13 187747
2020 Micro-organizations combined 59 23 7 7 4 1 0 82 11 933
2020 Invest in Canada 73 20 5 2 0 0 0 94 2 64

Question 21. In my work unit, individuals behave in a respectful manner.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 54 30 7 5 3 0 0 85 8 187251
2020 Micro-organizations combined 64 25 4 6 2 0 0 89 7 930
2020 Invest in Canada 75 19 3 3 0 0 0 94 3 63

Question 22. The people I work with value my ideas and opinions.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 45 35 11 5 2 1 0 82 7 186700
2020 Micro-organizations combined 56 30 7 4 2 1 0 87 6 929
2020 Invest in Canada 73 18 10 0 0 0 0 90 0 62

Question 23. In my work unit, I would feel free to speak about racism in the workplace without fear of reprisal.

Racism refers to any individual action or institutional practice which treats people differently because of their colour or ethnicity.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 48 24 11 4 4 6 3 79 9 188004
2020 Micro-organizations combined 56 20 10 3 3 5 3 82 7 935
2020 Invest in Canada 59 23 8 5 0 3 2 87 5 64
Top of page

My Immediate Supervisor

Question 24. My immediate supervisor encourages me to work collaboratively with others outside of my work unit.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 48 25 14 4 3 1 4 78 8 187985
2020 Micro-organizations combined 59 22 8 3 2 1 5 86 5 931
2020 Invest in Canada 76 19 5 0 0 0 0 95 0 63

Question 25. I receive useful feedback from my immediate supervisor on my job performance.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 46 30 11 7 5 1 1 77 12 187915
2020 Micro-organizations combined 51 27 10 6 4 0 2 79 10 932
2020 Invest in Canada 62 19 17 2 0 0 0 81 2 63

Question 26. I feel that my immediate supervisor supports my career goals.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 51 24 13 5 4 2 2 77 10 187690
2020 Micro-organizations combined 57 21 11 3 4 2 3 81 8 928
2020 Invest in Canada 62 19 17 2 0 0 0 81 2 63

Question 27. My immediate supervisor keeps me informed about the issues affecting my work.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 49 30 10 6 4 1 1 80 10 188026
2020 Micro-organizations combined 54 26 8 6 3 1 2 82 10 932
2020 Invest in Canada 67 17 10 6 0 0 0 84 6 63

Question 28. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, have you requested flexible work hours, either formally or informally?

Flexible work hours mean that an employee is able to vary the start and end times of their workday.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 39 61 188363
2020 Micro-organizations combined 48 52 935
2020 Invest in Canada 36 64 64

Question 29. During the COVID-19 pandemic, my immediate supervisor supported the use of flexible work hours.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 52 17 9 3 3 5 12 83 7 188232
2020 Micro-organizations combined 69 13 6 1 1 2 7 91 3 934
2020 Invest in Canada 70 11 3 2 2 2 11 93 4 64

Question 30. I am satisfied with the quality of supervision I receive.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 56 25 9 5 4 0 0 82 9 188350
2020 Micro-organizations combined 66 17 8 5 3 0 1 84 8 935
2020 Invest in Canada 78 13 8 2 0 0 0 91 2 64
Top of page

Senior Management

Question 31. Senior managers in my department or agency lead by example in ethical behaviour.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 39 29 13 7 5 7 0 73 13 188297
2020 Micro-organizations combined 53 25 9 6 5 2 0 80 11 932
2020 Invest in Canada 65 24 5 5 0 2 0 90 5 63

Question 32. I have confidence in the senior management of my department or agency.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 35 31 14 9 7 2 0 68 17 187817
2020 Micro-organizations combined 51 25 10 8 6 1 0 76 14 931
2020 Invest in Canada 60 17 14 5 2 2 0 79 6 63

Question 33. Senior management in my department or agency makes effective and timely decisions.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 26 31 17 12 8 5 0 60 21 187771
2020 Micro-organizations combined 40 30 10 10 7 2 0 72 18 933
2020 Invest in Canada 56 22 10 10 2 2 0 79 11 63

Question 34. Essential information flows effectively from senior management to staff.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 25 34 15 14 9 2 0 61 24 188175
2020 Micro-organizations combined 37 31 11 12 8 1 0 69 20 928
2020 Invest in Canada 38 43 8 6 3 2 0 82 10 63

Question 35. Senior managers in my department or agency use both official languages in their interactions with employees.

Survey year Organization Always/Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 41 21 12 5 5 12 4 74 12 188232
2020 Micro-organizations combined 54 21 10 3 4 3 4 81 8 934
2020 Invest in Canada 33 33 17 11 2 5 0 69 13 64
Top of page

My Organization (Department or Agency)

Question 36. My department or agency does a good job of communicating its vision, mission and goals.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 31 42 15 8 3 1 0 74 11 188081
2020 Micro-organizations combined 43 38 9 7 3 1 0 81 11 935
2020 Invest in Canada 58 31 8 2 2 0 0 89 3 64

Question 37. I feel that change is managed well in my department or agency.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 21 36 19 15 7 2 0 59 22 187137
2020 Micro-organizations combined 33 37 12 10 6 2 0 71 16 927
2020 Invest in Canada 45 35 11 6 0 2 0 82 7 62

Question 38. If I am faced with an ethical dilemma or a conflict between values in the workplace, I know where I can go for help in resolving the situation.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 35 36 13 8 5 3 1 73 13 187863
2020 Micro-organizations combined 47 30 9 8 4 2 0 78 12 931
2020 Invest in Canada 59 23 8 6 2 2 0 84 8 64

Question 39. My department or agency does a good job of promoting values and ethics in the workplace.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 37 36 16 6 4 2 0 74 10 187519
2020 Micro-organizations combined 46 30 13 5 3 1 0 77 9 930
2020 Invest in Canada 56 32 6 6 0 0 0 87 6 63

Question 40. I feel I can initiate a formal recourse process (e.g., grievance, complaint, appeal) without fear of reprisal.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 24 25 18 12 10 9 2 55 25 187781
2020 Micro-organizations combined 35 21 15 8 9 9 3 64 19 930
2020 Invest in Canada 54 17 16 3 3 6 0 76 7 63

Question 41. My department or agency does a good job of supporting employee career development.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 27 33 17 12 8 3 0 61 21 187687
2020 Micro-organizations combined 40 30 13 8 5 3 0 73 14 929
2020 Invest in Canada 48 25 20 5 2 0 0 73 6 64

Question 42. I believe I have opportunities for promotion within my department or agency, given my education, skills and experience.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 24 28 15 14 14 3 2 55 29 188227
2020 Micro-organizations combined 23 21 15 14 16 3 7 50 33 934
2020 Invest in Canada 39 23 9 14 11 3 0 65 26 64

Question 43a. To what extent have the following adversely affected your career progress in the federal public service over the last 12 months? Conflict between my work obligations and my family or personal obligations

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 51 23 13 6 4 1 4 77 10 188359
2020 Micro-organizations combined 56 21 11 6 3 1 2 80 9 934
2020 Invest in Canada 58 20 8 3 6 0 5 82 10 64

Question 43b. To what extent have the following adversely affected your career progress in the federal public service over the last 12 months? Lack of access to learning opportunities

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 47 24 14 6 4 1 3 74 11 188093
2020 Micro-organizations combined 59 20 10 4 3 1 3 82 7 933
2020 Invest in Canada 70 14 11 3 0 0 2 86 3 64

Question 43c. To what extent have the following adversely affected your career progress in the federal public service over the last 12 months? Discrimination

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 74 9 5 2 3 3 4 89 5 187576
2020 Micro-organizations combined 82 6 3 2 2 3 3 93 4 935
2020 Invest in Canada 88 5 0 2 0 3 3 98 2 64

Question 43d. To what extent have the following adversely affected your career progress in the federal public service over the last 12 months? Accessibility or accommodation issues

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 72 11 5 2 2 2 7 91 4 187772
2020 Micro-organizations combined 80 9 2 1 1 1 6 95 2 928
2020 Invest in Canada 81 6 2 0 0 2 9 98 0 64

Question 44. I feel I would be supported by my department or agency if I proposed a new idea.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 24 41 18 9 4 4 0 68 14 187878
2020 Micro-organizations combined 39 40 11 5 3 1 0 80 8 928
2020 Invest in Canada 55 38 6 2 0 0 0 92 2 64

Question 45. I think that my department or agency respects individual differences (e.g., culture, work styles, ideas, abilities).

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 38 37 13 7 3 2 0 77 10 187243
2020 Micro-organizations combined 51 31 8 5 3 1 0 83 9 928
2020 Invest in Canada 64 31 3 2 0 0 0 95 2 64

Question 46. My department or agency implements activities and practices that support a diverse workplace.

A diverse workplace includes everyone, regardless of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or family status, religion, age, language, culture, background, interests, views or other dimensions.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 41 34 13 5 3 4 1 78 8 187651
2020 Micro-organizations combined 49 29 12 4 2 4 0 81 7 933
2020 Invest in Canada 63 27 5 2 0 5 0 93 2 64

Question 47. My department or agency implements initiatives that promote anti-racism in the workplace.

Anti-racism may be promoted by providing access to anti-racism training, and promoting awareness of resources and self-directed learning on anti-racism.

Anti-racism is an active and consistent process of change to eliminate individual, institutional and systemic racism.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 38 32 16 5 3 6 1 75 8 188080
2020 Micro-organizations combined 36 27 18 6 4 7 1 69 11 933
2020 Invest in Canada 41 31 13 5 3 8 0 78 8 64

Question 48. I would feel comfortable sharing concerns about issues related to racism in the workplace with a person of authority (e.g., immediate supervisor, senior manager, ombudsman, human resources advisor).

Racism refers to any individual action or institutional practice which treats people differently because of their colour or ethnicity.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 44 30 11 5 4 4 2 79 10 187541
2020 Micro-organizations combined 53 26 7 4 4 3 2 84 9 931
2020 Invest in Canada 68 16 8 3 2 3 0 87 5 62

Question 49. Overall, my department or agency treats me with respect.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 53 31 8 4 3 0 0 85 7 187707
2020 Micro-organizations combined 68 21 6 3 2 0 0 89 5 932
2020 Invest in Canada 79 16 3 2 0 0 0 95 2 63

Question 50. I would recommend my department or agency as a great place to work.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 44 31 13 7 5 0 0 75 12 187475
2020 Micro-organizations combined 55 25 10 6 4 0 0 80 10 931
2020 Invest in Canada 66 17 14 3 0 0 0 83 3 64

Question 51. I am satisfied with my department or agency.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 42 33 13 7 5 0 0 75 12 186722
2020 Micro-organizations combined 54 27 9 5 5 0 0 81 10 927
2020 Invest in Canada 67 17 10 6 0 0 0 84 6 63

Question 52. I would prefer to remain with my department or agency, even if a comparable job was available elsewhere in the federal public service.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 39 25 17 9 6 3 1 66 16 187915
2020 Micro-organizations combined 47 22 14 9 5 2 1 72 14 933
2020 Invest in Canada 55 17 13 14 0 2 0 73 14 64
Top of page

Mobility and Retention

Question 53. Do you intend to leave your current position in the next two years?

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Not sure
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 24 41 35 188494
2020 Micro-organizations combined 25 39 35 935
2020 Invest in Canada 20 45 34 64

Question 54. Please indicate your reason for leaving.

Survey year Organization To retire
(%)
To pursue another position within my department or agency
(%)
To pursue a position in another department or agency
(%)
To pursue a position outside the federal public service
(%)
End of my term, casual or student employment
(%)
Other
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 17 38 28 4 6 6 45796
2020 Micro-organizations combined 15 12 57 3 7 6 239
2020 Invest in Canada 0 15 46 15 15 8 13
Top of page

Harassment

Harassment is normally a series of incidents, but it can be one severe incident that has a lasting impact on the individual. Harassment is any improper conduct by an individual that is directed at and offensive to another individual in the workplace, including at any event or any location related to work, and that the individual knew or ought reasonably to have known would cause offence or harm. It comprises objectionable act(s), comment(s) or display(s) that demean, belittle, or cause personal humiliation or embarrassment, and any act of intimidation or threat. It also includes harassment within the meaning of the Canadian Human Rights Act (i.e., based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, genetic characteristics (including a requirement to undergo a genetic test, or disclose the results of a genetic test), disability or conviction for an offence for which a pardon has been granted or in respect of which a record suspension has been ordered).

Question 55. Having carefully read the definition of harassment, have you been the victim of harassment on the job in the past 12 months?

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 11 89 188242
2020 Micro-organizations combined 9 91 935
2020 Invest in Canada 11 89 64

Question 56a. From whom did you experience harassment on the job? Co-workers

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 48 52 18665
2020 Micro-organizations combined 38 62 80

Question 56b. From whom did you experience harassment on the job? Individuals with authority over me

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 62 38 18665
2020 Micro-organizations combined 73 27 80

Question 56c. From whom did you experience harassment on the job? Individuals working for me

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 8 92 18665
2020 Micro-organizations combined 10 90 80

Question 56d. From whom did you experience harassment on the job? Individuals for whom I have a custodial responsibility (e.g., inmates, offenders, patients, detainees)

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 5 95 18665
2020 Micro-organizations combined 0 100 80

Question 56e. From whom did you experience harassment on the job? Individuals from other departments or agencies

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 7 93 18665

Question 56f. From whom did you experience harassment on the job? Members of the public (individuals or organizations)

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 8 92 18665

Question 56g. From whom did you experience harassment on the job? Other

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 4 96 18665

Question 57a. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Aggressive behaviour

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 39 61 18664
2020 Micro-organizations combined 37 63 80

Question 57b. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Excessive control

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 41 59 18664
2020 Micro-organizations combined 47 53 80

Question 57c. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Being excluded or being ignored

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 47 53 18664
2020 Micro-organizations combined 44 56 80

Question 57d. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Humiliation

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 43 57 18664
2020 Micro-organizations combined 40 60 80

Question 57e. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Interference with work or withholding resources

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 33 67 18664
2020 Micro-organizations combined 34 66 80

Question 57f. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Offensive remark

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 54 46 18664
2020 Micro-organizations combined 49 51 80

Question 57g. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Personal attack

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 38 62 18664
2020 Micro-organizations combined 45 55 80

Question 57h. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Physical violence

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 2 98 18664
2020 Micro-organizations combined 0 100 80

Question 57i. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Sexual comment or gesture

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 8 92 18664

Question 57j. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Threat

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 13 87 18664
2020 Micro-organizations combined 11 89 80

Question 57k. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Unfair treatment

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 52 48 18664
2020 Micro-organizations combined 52 48 80

Question 57l. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Yelling or shouting

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 25 75 18664
2020 Micro-organizations combined 24 76 80

Question 57m. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Other

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 16 84 18664
2020 Micro-organizations combined 19 81 80

Question 58a. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I discussed the matter with my supervisor or a senior manager.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 51 49 18666
2020 Micro-organizations combined 56 44 80

Question 58b. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I discussed the matter with the person(s) from whom I experienced the harassment.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 27 73 18666
2020 Micro-organizations combined 29 71 80

Question 58c. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I contacted a human resources advisor in my department or agency.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 9 91 18666
2020 Micro-organizations combined 34 66 80

Question 58d. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I contacted my union representative.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 20 80 18666
2020 Micro-organizations combined 8 92 80

Question 58e. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I used an informal conflict resolution process.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 11 89 18666
2020 Micro-organizations combined 15 85 80

Question 58f. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I filed a grievance or formal complaint.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 8 92 18666

Question 58g. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I resolved the matter informally on my own.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 13 87 18666
2020 Micro-organizations combined 10 90 80

Question 58h. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? Other.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 11 89 18666
2020 Micro-organizations combined 6 94 80

Question 58i. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I took no action.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 27 73 18666
2020 Micro-organizations combined 22 78 80

Question 59a. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? The issue was resolved.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 11 89 17329

Question 59b. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I did not think the incident was serious enough.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 18 82 17329

Question 59c. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? The behaviour stopped.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 9 91 17329

Question 59d. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? The individual apologized.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 7 93 17329

Question 59e. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? Management intervened.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 10 90 17329

Question 59f. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? The individual left or changed jobs.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 8 92 17329

Question 59g. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I changed jobs.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 9 91 17329

Question 59h. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I did not know what to do, where to go or whom to ask.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 13 87 17329

Question 59i. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I was too distraught.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 14 86 17329

Question 59j. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I had concerns about the formal complaint process (e.g., confidentiality, how long it would take).

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 32 68 17329

Question 59k. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I was advised against filing a complaint.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 10 90 17329

Question 59l. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I was afraid of reprisal (e.g., having limited career advancement, being labelled a troublemaker).

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 49 51 17329

Question 59m. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? Someone threatened me.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 2 98 17329

Question 59n. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I did not believe it would make a difference.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 57 43 17329

Question 59o. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I intend to file a grievance or a formal complaint but I have not done so yet.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 4 96 17329

Question 59p. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? Other

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 14 86 17329

Question 60. I am satisfied with how matters related to harassment are resolved in my department or agency.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 20 17 17 7 6 27 7 56 19 188041
2020 Micro-organizations combined 28 14 13 4 5 28 8 67 14 933
2020 Invest in Canada 47 14 6 0 5 20 8 85 7 64

Question 61. My department or agency works hard to create a workplace that prevents harassment.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 35 29 15 6 5 8 1 71 12 187964
2020 Micro-organizations combined 44 25 14 4 4 8 1 76 8 933
2020 Invest in Canada 56 19 6 3 2 13 2 87 5 64
Top of page

Discrimination

Discrimination means treating someone differently or unfairly because of a personal characteristic or distinction,which, whether intentional or not, has an effect that imposes disadvantages not imposed on others or that withholds or limits access that is given to others. There are 13 prohibited grounds of discrimination under the Canadian Human Rights Act (i.e., based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, genetic characteristics (including a requirement to undergo a genetic test, or disclose the results of a genetic test), disability or conviction for an offence for which a pardon has been granted or in respect of which a record suspension has been ordered).

Question 62. Having carefully read the definition of discrimination, have you been the victim of discrimination on the job in the past 12 months?

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 7 93 188014
2020 Micro-organizations combined 6 94 934

Question 63a. From whom did you experience discrimination on the job? Co-workers

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 36 64 12247
2020 Micro-organizations combined 38 62 50

Question 63b. From whom did you experience discrimination on the job? Individuals with authority over me

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 77 23 12247
2020 Micro-organizations combined 81 19 50

Question 63c. From whom did you experience discrimination on the job? Individuals working for me

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 5 95 12247

Question 63d. From whom did you experience discrimination on the job? Individuals for whom I have a custodial responsibility (e.g., inmates, offenders, patients, detainees)

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 3 97 12247
2020 Micro-organizations combined 0 100 50

Question 63e. From whom did you experience discrimination on the job? Individuals from other departments or agencies

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 8 92 12247

Question 63f. From whom did you experience discrimination on the job? Members of the public (individuals or organizations)

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 8 92 12247

Question 63g. From whom did you experience discrimination on the job? Other

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 9 91 12247

Question 64a. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Race

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 28 72 12245
2020 Micro-organizations combined 31 69 50

Question 64b. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. National or ethnic origin

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 20 80 12245
2020 Micro-organizations combined 20 80 50

Question 64c. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Colour

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 17 83 12245
2020 Micro-organizations combined 17 83 50

Question 64d. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Religion

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 6 94 12245

Question 64e. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Age

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 26 74 12245
2020 Micro-organizations combined 22 78 50

Question 64f. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Sex

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 27 73 12245
2020 Micro-organizations combined 23 77 50

Question 64g. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Sexual orientation

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 4 96 12245

Question 64h. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Gender identity or expression (including gender diverse identities or expressions such as transgender, two-spirit, or non-binary)

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 2 98 12245

Question 64i. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Marital status

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 8 92 12245

Question 64j. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Family status

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 18 82 12245
2020 Micro-organizations combined 22 78 50

Question 64k. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Genetic characteristics (including a requirement to undergo a genetic test, or disclose the results of a genetic test)

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 1 99 12245
2020 Micro-organizations combined 0 100 50

Question 64l. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Disability

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 16 84 12245

Question 64m. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Pardoned conviction or suspended record

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 0 100 12245
2020 Micro-organizations combined 0 100 50

Question 64n. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Other

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 18 82 12245
2020 Micro-organizations combined 33 67 50

Question 65a. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I discussed the matter with my supervisor or a senior manager.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 30 70 12247
2020 Micro-organizations combined 37 63 50

Question 65b. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I discussed the matter with the person(s) from whom I experienced the discrimination.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 14 86 12247
2020 Micro-organizations combined 16 84 50

Question 65c. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I contacted a human resources advisor in my department or agency.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 5 95 12247
2020 Micro-organizations combined 10 90 50

Question 65d. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I contacted my union representative.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 17 83 12247
2020 Micro-organizations combined 14 86 50

Question 65e. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I used an informal conflict resolution process.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 5 95 12247
2020 Micro-organizations combined 0 100 50

Question 65f. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I filed a grievance or formal complaint.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 6 94 12247

Question 65g. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I resolved the matter informally on my own.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 9 91 12247

Question 65h. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? Other

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 9 91 12247

Question 65i. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I took no action.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 48 52 12247
2020 Micro-organizations combined 38 62 50

Question 66a. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? The issue was resolved.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 5 95 11497

Question 66b. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I did not think the incident was serious enough.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 15 85 11497

Question 66c. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? The behaviour stopped.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 4 96 11497

Question 66d. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? The individual apologized.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 3 97 11497

Question 66e. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? Management intervened.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 3 97 11497

Question 66f. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? The individual left or changed jobs.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 4 96 11497

Question 66g. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I changed jobs.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 7 93 11497

Question 66h. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I did not know what to do, where to go or whom to ask.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 13 87 11497

Question 66i. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I was too distraught.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 11 89 11497

Question 66j. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I had concerns about the formal complaint process (e.g., confidentiality, how long it would take).

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 28 72 11497

Question 66k. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I was advised against filing a complaint.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 9 91 11497

Question 66l. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I was afraid of reprisal (e.g., having limited career advancement, being labelled a troublemaker).

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 46 54 11497

Question 66m. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? Someone threatened me.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 2 98 11497

Question 66n. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I did not believe it would make a difference.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 63 37 11497

Question 66o. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I intend to file a grievance or a formal complaint but I have not done so yet.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 4 96 11497

Question 66p. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? Other

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 13 87 11497

Question 67. I am satisfied with how matters related to discrimination are resolved in my department or agency.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 22 17 18 4 4 29 6 60 12 187795
2020 Micro-organizations combined 29 12 15 2 3 32 7 67 8 930
2020 Invest in Canada 51 6 10 0 2 24 8 84 2 63

Question 68. My department or agency works hard to create a workplace that prevents discrimination.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 36 30 16 4 3 9 1 73 9 187913
2020 Micro-organizations combined 43 25 16 3 4 9 1 75 8 929
2020 Invest in Canada 52 21 11 0 2 13 2 85 2 63

Of those who indicated that they were a victim of race-based discrimination:

Question 69. I am satisfied with how concerns or complaints about racism in the workplace are resolved in my department or agency.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 2 6 21 17 39 12 1 10 66 3416
2020 Micro-organizations combined 0 7 32 13 35 13 0 8 55 15
Top of page

Stress and Well-Being

Question 70a. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Risk of exposure to COVID-19

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 34 25 18 11 11 0 1 60 22 188246
2020 Micro-organizations combined 43 28 15 7 7 0 1 71 14 934
2020 Invest in Canada 56 22 13 8 2 0 0 78 9 64

Question 70b. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Pay or other compensation-related issues

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 33 28 19 10 9 0 1 62 19 187765
2020 Micro-organizations combined 42 29 15 7 6 0 1 71 13 933
2020 Invest in Canada 55 27 9 6 3 0 0 81 9 64

Question 70c. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Heavy workload

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 21 27 25 15 11 0 1 48 26 188096
2020 Micro-organizations combined 21 27 28 14 11 0 0 48 24 935
2020 Invest in Canada 23 25 27 13 13 0 0 48 25 64

Question 70d. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Unreasonable deadlines

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 31 29 20 11 7 0 2 61 18 187628
2020 Micro-organizations combined 36 30 19 8 5 0 0 67 13 931
2020 Invest in Canada 41 25 17 10 5 2 0 68 15 63

Question 70e. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Not enough employees to do the work

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 27 24 21 14 12 1 1 52 26 187371
2020 Micro-organizations combined 27 27 20 14 11 1 0 55 25 930
2020 Invest in Canada 30 27 17 13 11 3 0 58 24 64

Question 70f. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Overtime or long work hours

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 48 23 13 7 5 0 4 74 13 187251
2020 Micro-organizations combined 48 24 15 6 5 0 2 74 11 934
2020 Invest in Canada 34 31 16 11 6 0 2 67 17 64

Question 70g. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Balancing work and personal life

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 30 27 21 12 10 0 1 58 21 187793
2020 Micro-organizations combined 34 28 19 11 8 0 0 62 19 933
2020 Invest in Canada 33 27 13 20 8 0 0 59 28 64

Question 70h. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Balancing work and caregiving responsibilities (e.g., children, elderly, family member(s)) during the COVID-19 pandemic

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 33 23 18 10 9 0 6 60 21 187713
2020 Micro-organizations combined 38 22 15 11 8 0 6 64 20 931
2020 Invest in Canada 44 20 9 8 11 0 8 69 20 64

Question 70i. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Lack of control or input in decision-making

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 33 33 19 8 5 1 1 68 13 187500
2020 Micro-organizations combined 45 30 13 8 4 1 1 75 11 929
2020 Invest in Canada 52 29 10 8 0 2 0 82 8 63

Question 70j. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Competing or constantly changing priorities

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 26 32 22 12 7 1 1 59 19 187397
2020 Micro-organizations combined 35 32 18 8 5 0 1 67 14 927
2020 Invest in Canada 35 33 17 10 5 0 0 68 14 63

Question 70k. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Lack of clear expectations

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 33 31 19 10 6 0 1 65 16 187439
2020 Micro-organizations combined 43 26 16 8 5 0 1 70 13 929
2020 Invest in Canada 44 30 11 14 2 0 0 73 16 64

Question 70l. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Lack of recognition

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 45 26 14 8 6 1 1 72 14 187021
2020 Micro-organizations combined 57 23 9 6 5 0 1 80 11 928
2020 Invest in Canada 69 23 3 2 2 2 0 94 3 64

Question 70m. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Feeling disconnected from colleagues

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 30 30 21 11 6 0 1 61 17 187621
2020 Micro-organizations combined 34 30 21 9 5 0 0 65 14 933
2020 Invest in Canada 27 38 20 13 3 0 0 64 16 64

Question 70n. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Information overload

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 28 31 22 12 8 0 1 59 19 187551
2020 Micro-organizations combined 39 33 18 6 3 1 0 72 9 931
2020 Invest in Canada 48 31 16 5 0 0 0 80 5 64

Question 70o. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Physical work environment

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 48 28 14 5 3 0 1 77 9 186877
2020 Micro-organizations combined 56 24 13 4 2 0 1 81 6 929
2020 Invest in Canada 52 25 17 2 0 2 2 80 2 63

Question 70p. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Difficulty accessing my work tools or network (e.g., work email, work device, ergonomic equipment)

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 33 35 20 8 4 0 0 68 13 187065
2020 Micro-organizations combined 43 36 13 4 3 0 0 80 7 930
2020 Invest in Canada 67 22 11 0 0 0 0 89 0 64

Question 70q. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Accessibility or accommodation issues

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 68 17 7 2 2 1 4 89 4 186977
2020 Micro-organizations combined 76 13 4 2 1 0 3 93 3 932
2020 Invest in Canada 89 3 3 0 0 2 3 97 0 64

Question 70r. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Harassment or discrimination

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 76 10 5 3 3 1 3 89 6 186882
2020 Micro-organizations combined 80 8 4 2 2 1 3 91 5 931
2020 Invest in Canada 89 3 3 0 2 2 2 95 2 64

Question 70s. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Issue(s) with my co-worker(s)

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 67 20 7 3 2 0 2 89 4 186557
2020 Micro-organizations combined 71 18 6 3 2 0 1 90 4 927
2020 Invest in Canada 81 8 10 0 0 0 2 90 0 63

Question 70t. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Issue(s) with individual(s) with authority over me

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 66 16 8 4 4 0 1 84 9 186974
2020 Micro-organizations combined 69 13 7 5 4 0 2 84 9 931
2020 Invest in Canada 83 5 2 6 2 2 2 90 8 64

Question 70u. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Issue(s) with individual(s) working for me

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 61 11 4 2 1 0 21 91 3 187272
2020 Micro-organizations combined 64 11 5 2 0 0 17 91 3 931
2020 Invest in Canada 81 5 6 0 0 0 8 93 0 64

Question 70v. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Issue(s) with other individual(s) (e.g., members of the public, individuals from other departments or agencies)

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 68 18 7 2 1 0 3 89 4 187971
2020 Micro-organizations combined 70 18 7 2 1 0 2 90 3 933
2020 Invest in Canada 80 14 5 0 0 0 2 95 0 64

Question 70w. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Lack of job security

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 68 16 7 4 4 0 2 86 8 188032
2020 Micro-organizations combined 74 14 5 2 3 0 1 89 6 933
2020 Invest in Canada 73 14 6 3 3 0 0 87 6 63

Question 70x. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Personal issues

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 46 30 15 5 3 0 1 77 8 188018
2020 Micro-organizations combined 53 25 14 5 2 0 0 79 7 932
2020 Invest in Canada 56 23 17 2 2 0 0 80 3 64

Question 71. To what extent is stress from the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacting your ability to carry out day-to-day work responsibilities?

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 27 40 22 7 4 0 0 67 11 188168
2020 Micro-organizations combined 30 41 19 6 3 0 0 72 9 934
2020 Invest in Canada 36 36 17 5 6 0 0 72 11 64

Question 72. Overall, my level of work-related stress is...

Survey year Organization Very low
(%)
Low
(%)
Moderate
(%)
High
(%)
Very High
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 14 33 34 13 5 0 0 48 18 188144
2020 Micro-organizations combined 15 37 30 14 4 0 0 53 17 934
2020 Invest in Canada 19 33 34 11 3 0 0 52 14 64

Question 73. After my workday, I feel emotionally drained.

Survey year Organization Always/Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 11 20 38 21 9 0 0 31 31 187534
2020 Micro-organizations combined 9 16 39 24 11 0 0 36 25 929
2020 Invest in Canada 8 14 43 30 5 0 0 35 22 63

Question 74. My department or agency does a good job of raising awareness of mental health in the workplace.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 40 39 11 5 3 1 0 81 8 187949
2020 Micro-organizations combined 53 30 9 4 2 1 0 84 6 934
2020 Invest in Canada 56 33 6 3 0 2 0 90 3 64

Question 75. I believe senior managers in my department or agency take adequate steps to support the mental health of employees during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 35 32 14 10 6 3 0 70 16 187564
2020 Micro-organizations combined 50 28 9 7 4 2 0 80 11 930
2020 Invest in Canada 56 31 6 5 0 2 0 89 5 64

Question 76. I would feel comfortable sharing concerns with my immediate supervisor about my mental health.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 39 28 12 11 8 1 1 69 20 187730
2020 Micro-organizations combined 45 25 10 11 6 1 1 72 17 932
2020 Invest in Canada 46 22 16 14 0 2 0 69 15 63

Question 77. My immediate supervisor supports my mental health and well-being.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 48 27 13 4 4 3 1 79 8 187225
2020 Micro-organizations combined 57 23 10 4 3 2 2 83 7 933
2020 Invest in Canada 59 20 16 2 0 3 0 82 2 64

Question 78. I would describe my workplace as being psychologically healthy.

A psychologically healthy workplace is one that promotes employees’ psychological well-being and actively works to prevent harm to employee psychological health due to negligent, reckless or intentional acts.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 34 33 15 10 7 2 0 68 17 188058
2020 Micro-organizations combined 46 29 11 7 5 1 0 76 12 934
2020 Invest in Canada 53 27 14 6 0 0 0 80 6 64

Question 79a. I feel that the information I receive from my department or agency related to the COVID-19 pandemic is... Clear and easy to understand.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 39 39 10 8 3 0 0 78 12 188293
2020 Micro-organizations combined 58 30 6 4 1 0 0 89 5 935
2020 Invest in Canada 72 22 2 2 0 3 0 97 2 64

Question 79b. I feel that the information I receive from my department or agency related to the COVID-19 pandemic is... Provided in a timely manner.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 38 37 12 9 4 1 0 76 13 187495
2020 Micro-organizations combined 58 28 7 5 2 1 0 87 6 934
2020 Invest in Canada 69 23 2 3 0 3 0 95 3 64

Question 79c. I feel that the information I receive from my department or agency related to the COVID-19 pandemic is... Relevant to the work that I do.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 35 37 17 6 3 1 1 74 9 186885
2020 Micro-organizations combined 55 29 10 3 1 1 1 86 4 928
2020 Invest in Canada 67 16 8 2 0 5 3 90 2 64

Question 79d. I feel that the information I receive from my department or agency related to the COVID-19 pandemic is... Consistent with the information provided to me by my immediate supervisor.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 45 34 12 4 2 1 1 81 7 187583
2020 Micro-organizations combined 63 25 6 2 1 1 3 90 3 931
2020 Invest in Canada 72 16 6 0 0 3 3 93 0 64

Question 79e. I feel that the information I receive from my department or agency related to the COVID-19 pandemic is... Available in both official languages.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 65 18 6 1 1 7 3 92 2 187791
2020 Micro-organizations combined 75 12 4 1 1 4 3 93 2 934
2020 Invest in Canada 77 13 3 2 0 6 0 95 2 64

Question 80. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, my department or agency has clearly communicated the mental health services and resources that are available to me.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 50 33 9 5 2 2 0 84 7 187455
2020 Micro-organizations combined 63 25 7 3 1 1 0 89 4 933
2020 Invest in Canada 73 20 0 2 0 5 0 98 2 64

Question 81. I would feel comfortable sharing concerns with my immediate supervisor about my physical health and safety.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 50 29 9 7 5 1 0 80 12 187389
2020 Micro-organizations combined 60 23 7 5 3 1 1 85 9 930
2020 Invest in Canada 64 20 6 6 0 3 0 87 6 64

Question 82. I am satisfied with the measures my department or agency is taking to protect my physical health and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 52 28 9 6 4 1 0 81 10 187701
2020 Micro-organizations combined 69 21 5 3 1 1 0 91 4 933
2020 Invest in Canada 75 17 8 0 0 0 0 92 0 64

Question 84. I am equipped to support employees in my work unit who are experiencing mental health issues. (for supervisors)

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 23 47 13 12 3 1 1 71 15 44705
2020 Micro-organizations combined 38 41 10 8 3 0 0 79 11 291
2020 Invest in Canada 65 26 4 0 4 0 0 91 4 23

Question 85. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, have you managed any employees who have been working remotely? (for supervisors)

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 89 11 44722
2020 Micro-organizations combined 96 4 291
2020 Invest in Canada 91 9 23

Question 86. My department or agency has provided me with adequate training and/or resources to manage a remote team during the COVID-19 pandemic. (for supervisors who manage employees who have been working remotely)

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 20 35 18 18 8 0 0 56 26 41680
2020 Micro-organizations combined 29 30 17 15 8 0 2 60 23 281
2020 Invest in Canada 67 19 10 5 0 0 0 86 5 21
Top of page

Duty to Accommodate

The duty to accommodate refers to the employer’s obligation to eliminate disadvantages to employees, prospective employees or clients that result from a rule, practice or physical barrier that has or that may have an adverse impact on individuals or groups protected under the Canadian Human Rights Act or identified as a designated group under the Employment Equity Act. It applies to all grounds of discrimination covered by the Canadian Human Rights Act (i.e., race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy and childbirth), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, genetic characteristics (including a requirement to undergo a genetic test, or disclose the results of a genetic test), disability or conviction for an offence for which a pardon has been granted or in respect of which a record suspension has been ordered). Employers must provide accommodation up to the point of undue hardship, taking into account essential job requirements.

Please note that the questions about duty to accommodate do not apply to employees who asked for office equipment to work remotely, unless their requests pertain to specific accommodation measures that help to reduce barriers to work, as per the Canadian Human Rights Act.

Question 87. Having carefully read the definition of duty to accommodate, did you have workplace accommodation measures in place before the COVID-19 pandemic which are no longer being met?

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 9 91 187153
2020 Micro-organizations combined 7 93 928
2020 Invest in Canada 11 89 64

Question 88. Having carefully read the definition of duty to accommodate, have you requested workplace accommodation measures in the last two years?

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 13 87 187417
2020 Micro-organizations combined 11 89 931
2020 Invest in Canada 8 92 63

Question 89. Were the requests for workplace accommodation measures related to a disability?

A disability means any impairment, including a physical, mental, intellectual, cognitive, learning, communication or sensory impairment — or a functional limitation — whether permanent, temporary or episodic in nature, or evident or not, that, in interaction with a barrier, hinders a person’s full and equal participation in society.

A barrier means anything — including anything physical, architectural, technological or attitudinal, anything that is based on information or communications or anything that is the result of a policy or a practice — that hinders the full and equal participation in society of persons with an impairment, including a physical, mental, intellectual, cognitive, learning, communication or sensory impairment or a functional limitation.

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 50 50 24105
2020 Micro-organizations combined 45 55 101

Question 90. Were any workplace accommodation measures implemented?

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 79 21 24104
2020 Micro-organizations combined 86 14 102

Question 91. I am satisfied with the workplace accommodation measures that were implemented.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 48 33 8 7 3 0 0 82 10 19149
2020 Micro-organizations combined 57 30 8 5 0 0 0 87 5 89

Question 92. I would feel comfortable requesting workplace accommodation measures from my immediate supervisor.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 48 30 9 5 3 2 3 82 8 187986
2020 Micro-organizations combined 59 25 7 3 2 2 3 88 5 932
2020 Invest in Canada 70 17 9 0 0 0 3 90 0 64
Top of page

Compensation

Question 93. In the last 12 months, has your pay or other compensation been affected by issues with the Phoenix pay system?

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Not sure
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 29 50 20 1 63 37 188516
2020 Micro-organizations combined 26 52 18 4 67 33 936
2020 Invest in Canada 3 42 9 45 93 7 64

Of those who indicated that their pay or other compensation had been affected:

Question 94. Have all your pay or other compensation issues been resolved?

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 37 63 53712
2020 Micro-organizations combined 42 58 245

Of those who indicated that their pay or other compensation had been affected:

Question 95. I am satisfied with the support (e.g., regular information, follow-up, making enquiries on my behalf, offering emergency or priority pay) I received from my department or agency to help resolve my pay or other compensation issues.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 11 20 17 20 26 1 4 34 49 53684
2020 Micro-organizations combined 30 30 13 13 9 1 5 64 23 244

Of those who indicated that their pay or other compensation had been affected:

Question 96. I am satisfied with the support I received from the Pay Centre to help resolve my pay or other compensation issues.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 7 16 15 21 36 1 3 24 60 53711
2020 Micro-organizations combined 12 19 16 15 24 3 12 36 46 245

Question 97. To what extent have issues with the Phoenix pay system affected your decision to seek or accept another position (e.g., deployment, promotion, secondment, assignment, acting assignment) within your organization or the federal public service?

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Most positive or least negative answers
(%)
Least positive or most negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2020 Public Service 45 18 12 7 6 2 10 71 15 188101
2020 Micro-organizations combined 49 17 10 6 5 1 13 76 12 935
2020 Invest in Canada 23 2 3 3 5 6 58 70 22 64
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