On May 21, 2025, CAPE president Nathan Prier criticized the Trudeau government's approach to return-to-office policies and arbitrary austerity measures that have eroded trust among public servants. He called for granting remote work rights and robust, evidence‐based consultations to repair the strained relationship between management and workers, while warning against experiments akin to the controversial 'DOGE' model reminiscent of authoritarian practices.

The Canadian Association of Professional Employees (CAPE), representing over 25,000 public service workers, has called on Parliament to launch an inquiry into the three-day return-to-office mandate, criticizing what it describes as catastrophic failures in policy decision-making and a lack of transparency from government management.

Nathan Prier, the newly elected president of CAPE, leads a progressive slate known as Members for Change that aims to reform union governance, enhance rank-and-file participation, and advocate for worker rights including improved telework conditions and robust DEI measures. The initiative has been applauded for its commitment to democratic processes and addressing long-standing issues like workplace safety and equity.

Following two resignations in 2023, CAPE has appointed a new president who, drawing on personal experiences of dissatisfaction with employer policies during the hybrid workplace rollout, is committed to championing worker rights and progressive union activism.

In a December election, a radical slate known as Members For Change won 21 out of 26 National Executive Committee positions at CAPE, marking a dramatic departure from its traditionally conservative, business-unionism approach. The new leadership is promising a more democratic, militant, and inclusive model that prioritizes active worker involvement and better defense of members' rights.

The Canadian Association of Professional Employees (CAPE) has called for a parliamentary committee to investigate the government's three-day-a-week return-to-office mandate, arguing that the policy reflects catastrophic failures in public service management and erodes confidence in senior civil service leadership.

The Government of Canada approved renewed collective bargaining agreements with multiple unions, including CAPE, ensuring enhanced wages and improved working conditions for public service employees. The agreement ratification, backed by strong membership support, particularly covers Economics and Social Science Services as well as Translation, marking a significant success for labor rights and union representation.