Ottawa, March 16, 2026 – The Association of Justice Counsel (AJC), representing more than 3,500 federal lawyers and prosecutors, met with the Department of Justice to review the results of the Voluntary Departure Program (VDP). We can confirm that 16 voluntary departures have been accepted across the department, resulting in a significant number of affected letters being rescinded.

This is encouraging news. Voluntary measures are always the preferred approach during workforce adjustment because they help reduce the number of members who may face involuntary job loss. The results of the VDP mean that a significant number of previously issued affected letters are now being rescinded.

Here is the latest information we received from the employer.

The Indigenous Rights and Relations Portfolio (IRRP)

LP-02

  • 6 voluntary departures were accepted
  • 4 requests were not accepted
  • 42 affected letters will be rescinded

National Litigation Sector (NLS)  

LP-02

  • 7 voluntary departures were accepted
  • 3 requests were not accepted
  • 33 affected letters will be rescinded

LP-01  

  • 2 voluntary departures were accepted
  • 1 request was not accepted - submitted after the deadline

Within the previously announced target of 42 LP-01 positions potentially eliminated over the three-year period, the employer indicated that 29 LP-01 positions are planned for reduction, with 18 in the Ontario Regional Office (ORO) and 11 in the Quebec Regional Office (QRO) over the next 3 years.

For this group, the affected letters issued earlier will be administratively rescinded, and members will receive new affected letters related to the year-three reductions. These reductions do not need to be achieved before March 31, 2027. Members will remain in affected status and will continue to be considered through the Priority Placement Unit (PPU) while the employer reviews funding and workforce planning. As positions become available or funding evolves, there may be opportunities for placement or movement that could reduce the number of cuts.

Public Law and Legislative Services Sector

LP-03 (Two groups were reviewed):

  • In one group, no volunteers came forward, and a SERLO process will be required to eliminate one of two positions.
  • In the other group, five affected statuses will be rescinded.

LP-02

One voluntary departure was accepted. The remaining five positions will proceed to a Selection of Employees for Retention and Lay-off (SERLO) process to reduce two positions.

Workforce planning continues to evolve and remains closely tied to client funding levels. As funding changes, the sector may reassess staffing plans and potentially rescind affected statuses. Vacancies at higher levels may also create opportunities to reallocate resources and adjust staffing decisions.

What members can expect next  

Members whose affected status is being rescinded received their letters the week of March 9th  confirming the change. Those who remain affected due to longer-term workforce planning will receive updated letters outlining their status.

The employer indicated that Selection of Employees for Retention and Lay-off (SERLO) processes are expected to begin soon, with timing that may take the March break period into account. Members should have been notified if participating in a SERLO process the week of March 9th as well.

Overall, 16 voluntary departures and 80 rescinded letters mark an important step in limiting the number of members who may face involuntary measures.

We will continue to monitor developments closely and will provide updates as more information becomes available. 

ABOUT THE AJC

The Association of Justice Counsel (AJC) is the union defending Canada’s legal team. Our 3,500+ members are Federal Crown Counsel and articling students employed by the Government of Canada in the Department of Justice, the Public Prosecution Service of Canada, and in various federal agencies, tribunals and courts across Canada.

MEDIA CONTACT

The Communications Department 
Association of Justice Counsel 
300–2725 Queensview Drive 
Ottawa, ON, Canada 
K2B 0A1

Phone: (613) 798-9900 
Toll-Free: (866) 218-3310 
Fax: (613) 564-0606 
Email: admin@ajc-ajj.ca

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