Making a Smooth Transition to the Modernized Staffing Regime

	Under the new PSEA, deputy heads of departments and agencies have been delegated staffing authority.

The implementation of the new Public Service Employment Act (PSEA) will have a major impact on how departments and agencies plan and implement their human resources (HR) activities. The PSC is working with departments and agencies, the Canada School of Public Service (CSPS) and the Public Service Human Resources Management Agency of Canada (PSHRMAC) to help organizations ensure a smooth, rapid transition period.

While organizations will enjoy great flexibility in managing how the transition affects their HR activities, they will all need to consider certain factors. They will want to reduce the administrative burden of maintaining parallel appointment and recourse systems. As well, to help build confidence in the new appointment system, organizations must ensure that staffing decisions continue to consistently apply the staffing values.

Both HR advisors and managers will find the PSC Web-based "Public Service Employment Act Transition Reference Document" very useful. It deals with such issues as appointment processes and eligibility lists; appeals and corrective measures; effective dates of appointment; deployments; probation; priorities; casual employment; and oaths or solemn affirmations of office and secrecy.

Additional information on these and other implementation issues may also be obtained from your PSC strategic staffing consultant.