How members can respond to the GOA’s hybrid work announcement

The Government of Alberta (GOA) announced it will discontinue its Interim Hybrid Work Policy starting on Feb. 1, 2026.

However, the employer agreed to clarify hybrid work language during our latest round of collective bargaining. Our Letter of Clarification states that members can apply to work from home. The employer would then have 30 days to reply and provide a written rationale for their decision.

Below are some tactics members can use if hybrid requests are denied.

File a grievance

Some members have reported that their hybrid application form has been taken down. Even if the form is down, you can still ask your manager for hybrid arrangements as you would with the form. You should put this request in writing, such as by email.

If your request is denied, you can file a grievance. 

As with all grievances, there is no guarantee that filing a grievance will be successful. However, AUPE is committed to defending members on this issue.

Respectful workplace complaint

Talk to your coworkers—you may have grounds for a Respectful Workplace complaint if your request is denied but your coworkers’ requests are accepted.

Denying you the same terms and conditions as your colleagues is arbitrary and provides no operational benefit for your employer. It only serves to harm you.

There are also human rights needs for remote work, such as family status or medical accommodation, which is grounds for a Respectful Workplace complaint.

AUPE is also reviewing the possibility of filing a policy grievance.

The union believes your hybrid work language is clear and that members should request hybrid work arrangements as usual.

If returning to your worksite full time causes you any hardship or work-related issues, please contact the Member Resource Centre. You can do that by calling 1-800-232-7284.