Canadians Lose Confidence in Public Service: What It Means for Your Benefits and Services
A new survey shows that most Canadians no longer trust the public service to plan for the future or spend tax dollars wisely. This could mean slower processing times for Employment Insurance (EI), delays in food safety inspections, and stalled housing or transit projects.
Here’s what you need to know.
The Key Numbers
The Confederation of Tomorrow survey, conducted in early 2026, found:
- 61% of Canadians lack confidence in the public service’s ability to plan for the future.
- 67% of Canadians doubt its ability to spend tax dollars wisely.
- Skepticism is highest among Conservative voters and in provinces like Saskatchewan and Quebec.
These numbers matter because the public service delivers services you rely on every day.
What This Means for You
When trust in the public service drops, it can lead to:
- Slower EI processing – longer waits for benefits if you lose your job.
- Delayed food safety inspections – potential risks to your health.
- Stalled major projects – new housing, transit, or infrastructure taking longer to build.
- Reduced confidence in government programs you depend on.
The Carney government has created new agencies like the Major Projects Office to bypass traditional bureaucracy. But experts warn these are temporary fixes, not long-term solutions.
Who Is Affected
This affects all Canadians who use government services. You are especially impacted if you:
- Apply for EI or other benefits – delays could affect your income.
- Work in regulated industries – food safety, health, or construction.
- Rely on new housing or transit projects – trust issues can slow approvals.
- Pay taxes – you want your money spent efficiently.
What You Should Do
- Stay informed – Follow updates from the Institute for Research on Public Policy (IRPP) on public service reform.
- Contact your MP – If you experience delays in government services, let your elected representative know.
- Use feedback channels – Report service issues through official government feedback forms.
- Watch for announcements – The government is launching a research project on “state capacity.” Pay attention to its findings.
- Be patient but persistent – If you need EI or other benefits, apply early and follow up regularly.
Bottom Line
Most Canadians no longer trust the public service to plan ahead or spend money wisely. This could mean slower benefits, delayed projects, and reduced confidence in government programs. While the government is trying new agencies, real reform is needed. Stay informed, speak up about delays, and hold your elected officials accountable.
Source: Policy Options / Institute for Research on Public Policy