Since Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took office, the number of federal executives has increased by 42%, rising from 6,414 in 2016 to 9,155 in 2024. Critics, including the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, argue this expansion has led to higher salaries and bonuses, with total executive compensation reaching $1.95 billion in 2022. As inflation rises, concerns grow about government efficiency amidst this bureaucratic growth, although the government claims Canada compares favorably to other G7 nations regarding fiscal health.
The number of federal executives has surged by 42% during Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s nine-year term.
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“The government has expanded its bureaucracy at every level, but the most concerning aspect is the significant increase in high-salaried public servants,” stated Franco Terrazzano, federal director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF).
As of 2024, there are 9,155 federal public servants categorized as executives, reflecting a rise of over 42% from 6,414 in 2016, according to a recent CTF press release.
This increase spans all categories of federal executives, with salaries between $134,827 and $255,607.
“Trudeau should prioritize addressing the senior public servant issue, which includes reducing the size and expenses of high-level management,” Terrazzano suggested.
In 2022, total compensation for federal executives reached $1.95 billion, signifying a 41% increase since 2015.
“Taxpayers are footing the bill for more executives with elevated salaries and bonuses, yet government performance remains unsatisfactory,” expressed Nicolas Gagnon.
Documents obtained by the CTF indicated that nearly 90% of federal executives receive annual bonuses. In 2022, the government allocated $202 million in bonuses, averaging $18,252 per executive.
Inflation and Fiscal Health
Statistics Canada reported a 19.4% inflation rate spike from 2015 to 2022. However, Minister Jean-Yves Duclos, Trudeau’s political lieutenant in Quebec, maintains that “the Canadian government is in a solid position.”
“Compared to other G7 countries, Canada exhibits extraordinarily strong fiscal health,” he stated during a Le Bilan interview.
He claimed that Canada outperforms in metrics related to debt and deficits within the G7.
“We are significantly better off regarding debt, debt interest, and deficits. Additionally, our inflation and economic growth for the middle class are promising,” he asserted.
Duclos also pointed out Canada’s commendable standing in environmental and social initiatives.
“Poverty has notably decreased in recent years, including among children and seniors. Yes, we are making more investments, much of which is directed toward municipalities and governmental support, including health care and high-speed internet,” he concluded.