2018 Public Service Employee Survey Results by Theme for Policy and Promotion Sector

The results of the 2018 Public Service Employee Survey (PSES) are presented by key people management themes (i.e., employee engagement, leadership, workforce, workplace). Results are not shown when there is no historical comparison, or when there is an insufficient number of responses.

Note: Due to rounding, percentages may not add to 100. Results have been adjusted for non-response to better represent the target population. Therefore, percentages should not be used to determine the number of respondents within a response category. Positive answers and Negative answers are calculated by removing the "Don't know" and "Not applicable" responses from the total responses.

Table of Contents

Top of Page

Employee engagement

Question 5. I get a sense of satisfaction from my work.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 34 42 12 8 5 0 0 75 13 160671
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 35 46 9 6 4 0 0 81 10 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 37 44 10 10 0 0 0 80 10 41

Question 9. Overall, I feel valued at work.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 29 37 14 11 9 0 0 66 20 160988
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 40 38 7 10 6 0 0 78 15 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 54 29 5 10 2 0 0 83 12 41

Question 10. I am proud of the work that I do.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 50 35 9 3 2 0 0 85 5 160125
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 48 38 9 3 2 0 0 86 5 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 44 53 0 3 0 0 0 97 3 41

Question 14. Overall, I like my job.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 40 39 11 6 3 0 0 80 9 161156
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 46 35 13 4 2 0 0 81 6 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 49 32 17 2 0 0 0 80 2 41

Question 43. I would recommend my department or agency as a great place to work.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 35 32 17 9 7 1 0 67 16 160754
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 50 29 13 6 2 0 0 79 9 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 56 17 15 10 2 0 0 73 12 41

Question 44. I am satisfied with my department or agency.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 33 34 16 10 7 0 0 68 16 160146
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 45 32 15 6 2 0 0 77 8 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 45 32 15 5 2 0 0 77 8 40

Question 45. I would prefer to remain with my department or agency, even if a comparable job was available elsewhere in the federal public service.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 31 25 19 12 9 3 0 59 22 161050
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 41 24 19 10 5 2 0 66 15 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 39 19 22 10 7 3 0 60 17 41
Top of Page

Leadership

Immediate supervisor

Question 23. I can count on my immediate supervisor to keep his or her promises.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 45 30 12 7 5 2 1 76 12 160474
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 55 28 13 2 2 2 0 84 3 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 59 12 18 2 2 5 0 75 5 39

Question 24. My immediate supervisor keeps me informed about the issues affecting my work.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 42 32 11 8 5 1 0 75 14 160177
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 49 31 7 9 4 0 0 80 13 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 54 23 10 10 2 0 0 77 13 39

Question 26. I am satisfied with the quality of supervision I receive.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 47 28 11 7 6 0 0 75 13 160605
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 54 27 11 6 3 0 0 80 9 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 49 28 10 8 5 0 0 77 13 39

Senior management

Question 29. Senior managers in my department or agency lead by example in ethical behaviour.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 28 31 17 9 8 6 0 63 19 161481
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 48 32 8 4 5 3 0 83 9 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 56 20 5 8 7 5 0 79 15 41

Question 30. I have confidence in the senior management of my department or agency.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 25 31 18 13 11 2 0 58 24 161089
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 44 33 10 8 5 0 0 77 13 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 46 31 5 12 5 0 0 78 17 41

Question 31. Senior management in my department or agency makes effective and timely decisions.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 17 29 21 16 12 5 0 48 30 160960
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 25 42 14 13 5 2 0 68 18 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 24 32 10 25 5 5 0 59 31 41

Question 32. Essential information flows effectively from senior management to staff.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 16 30 18 18 14 3 0 48 33 161278
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 27 41 11 14 4 2 0 70 19 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 31 37 5 15 5 7 0 74 21 41
Top of Page

Workforce

Performance management

Question 6. I receive meaningful recognition for work well done.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 26 34 17 13 10 0 0 60 23 161141
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 35 41 8 7 9 0 0 76 16 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 37 49 3 8 5 0 0 85 12 41

Question 7. I have clear work objectives.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 29 41 13 11 5 0 0 71 16 161312
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 37 41 11 7 5 0 0 77 11 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 37 35 7 15 5 0 0 72 20 40

Question 19. In my work unit, unsatisfactory employee performance is managed effectively.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 13 22 19 16 14 13 2 41 36 160747
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 15 22 19 14 8 17 6 48 28 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 18 15 11 15 8 28 5 50 35 39

Question 22. I receive useful feedback from my immediate supervisor on my job performance.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 37 35 12 9 6 1 0 73 15 160726
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 49 29 10 9 4 0 0 78 13 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 54 23 8 11 5 0 0 77 16 39

Question 28. I receive the support I need from senior management to address unsatisfactory performance issues in my work unit. (for supervisors)

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 25 34 16 10 6 3 6 65 18 36684
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 38 38 9 6 0 3 6 84 7 34
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 50 16 16 9 0 0 8 72 10 12

Job fit and development

Question 1. I get the training I need to do my job.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 25 45 10 14 6 0 1 70 20 161510
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 40 41 7 11 2 0 0 80 13 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 54 22 2 17 5 0 0 76 22 41

Question 2. My job is a good fit with my interests.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 40 39 11 6 3 0 0 80 10 161032
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 50 34 9 5 3 0 0 83 8 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 58 30 5 2 5 0 0 88 7 41

Question 3. My job is a good fit with my skills.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 45 38 8 6 3 0 0 84 9 160117
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 56 33 5 5 2 0 0 89 6 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 60 32 0 5 2 0 0 93 7 40

Question 37. My department or agency does a good job of supporting employee career development.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 20 32 18 15 12 2 0 53 28 161004
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 30 31 17 11 8 3 0 63 20 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 29 25 7 25 7 7 0 58 34 41

Question 38. I believe I have opportunities for promotion within my department or agency, given my education, skills and experience.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 19 27 16 16 18 2 2 48 35 161071
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 20 23 14 18 21 2 2 45 41 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 17 19 8 19 30 7 0 39 53 41

Empowerment

Question 11. I have opportunities to provide input into decisions that affect my work.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 27 38 14 12 9 0 0 65 21 160686
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 30 43 15 9 2 0 0 74 11 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 29 51 10 10 0 0 0 80 10 41

Question 12. I am encouraged to be innovative or to take initiative in my work.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 31 34 16 10 8 0 0 66 18 160340
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 39 35 11 10 5 1 0 74 14 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 34 36 12 8 7 2 0 72 15 41

Question 13. I have support at work to provide a high level of service.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 30 37 15 11 7 0 0 67 18 160685
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 35 41 13 9 3 0 0 76 12 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 41 34 10 12 2 0 0 76 15 41

Question 39. I feel I would be supported by my department or agency if I proposed a new idea.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 20 35 22 11 8 3 0 57 20 161226
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 35 39 15 5 4 2 0 75 9 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 45 35 5 5 5 5 0 84 11 40

Work-life balance and workload

Question 4. I have support at work to balance my work and personal life.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 42 33 11 8 5 0 0 76 13 161141
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 49 34 7 7 2 0 2 84 9 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 46 36 5 8 3 0 2 85 10 41

Question 15. I can complete my assigned workload during my regular working hours.

Survey year Organization Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 37 32 17 8 5 0 1 70 13 161699
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 28 29 27 11 5 0 0 56 17 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 41 22 22 15 0 0 0 63 15 41

Mobility and retention

Question 46. Do you intend to leave your current position in the next two years?

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Not Sure
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 27 39 35 161647
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 29 36 35 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 27 34 39 41

Question 47. Please indicate your reason for leaving.

Survey year Organization To retire
(%)
To pursue another position within my department or agency
(%)
To pursue a position in another department or agency
(%)
To pursue a position outside the federal public service
(%)
End of my term, casual or student employment
(%)
Other
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 17 33 30 6 8 6 43390
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 6 11 62 11 6 5 37
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 10 9 46 18 18 0 11
Top of Page

Workplace

Organizational goals

Question 8. I know how my work contributes to the achievement of my department’s or agency’s goals.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 43 40 9 5 2 0 0 84 7 161313
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 53 39 5 2 1 0 0 92 3 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 59 31 2 8 0 0 0 90 8 41

Question 33. My department or agency does a good job of communicating its vision, mission and goals.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 24 42 18 10 5 1 0 67 15 161017
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 50 37 10 2 1 1 0 88 2 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 63 32 0 0 3 2 0 97 3 40

Organizational performance

Question 16a. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... constantly changing priorities.

Survey year Organization Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 11 26 35 18 8 1 1 27 37 161147
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 10 16 38 26 8 0 2 35 26 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 7 22 37 27 7 0 0 34 29 41

Question 16b. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... lack of stability in my department or agency.

Survey year Organization Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 12 20 28 23 13 2 2 37 33 160571
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 3 12 30 30 21 1 3 53 16 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 5 14 29 22 30 0 0 52 19 41

Question 16c. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... too many approval stages.

Survey year Organization Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 17 24 29 17 9 2 3 26 43 160643
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 9 18 28 28 15 1 2 44 27 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 15 24 32 19 10 0 0 29 39 41

Question 16d. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... unreasonable deadlines.

Survey year Organization Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 8 16 32 27 14 1 2 42 25 160266
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 3 13 32 34 15 0 2 50 17 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 3 15 41 27 15 0 0 42 17 41

Question 16e. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... having to do the same or more work, but with fewer resources.

Survey year Organization Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 17 23 27 18 11 1 2 30 42 160843
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 19 21 24 21 10 2 4 33 42 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 17 20 20 27 12 2 2 41 38 41

Question 16f. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... high staff turnover.

Survey year Organization Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 13 20 27 22 13 3 3 37 35 160300
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 6 15 36 26 11 2 3 40 22 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 10 15 30 23 18 2 2 43 26 40

Question 16g. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... overly complicated or unnecessary business processes.

Survey year Organization Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 16 24 31 16 9 2 2 25 42 161001
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 8 17 28 34 10 0 3 46 26 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 8 24 24 24 17 0 2 42 33 41

Respectful workplace

Question 18. In my work unit, every individual is accepted as an equal member of the team.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 40 31 10 10 8 1 0 72 18 160757
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 41 32 9 10 6 3 0 75 16 124
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 42 29 10 11 5 3 0 73 17 38

Question 20. In my work unit, individuals behave in a respectful manner.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 44 36 9 7 4 0 0 81 11 160773
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 49 37 8 4 2 0 0 86 6 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 59 28 8 5 0 0 0 87 5 39

Question 21. The people I work with value my ideas and opinions.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 37 40 13 5 3 1 0 77 9 161015
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 48 36 11 5 1 0 0 84 6 123
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 64 28 5 2 0 0 0 92 2 39

Question 40. My department or agency implements activities and practicesthat support a diverse workplace.

A diverse workplace includes everyone, regardless of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or family status, religion, age, language, culture, background, interests, views or other dimensions.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 40 36 14 4 3 3 0 78 7 160822
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 41 36 12 7 1 3 0 79 8 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 36 34 12 10 0 7 0 76 10 41

Question 41. I think that my department or agency respects individual differences (e.g., culture, work styles, ideas).

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 39 38 13 6 3 2 0 78 9 160801
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 40 43 12 3 1 2 0 84 4 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 42 36 12 5 0 5 0 82 5 41

Question 42. Overall, my department or agency treats me with respect.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 44 36 10 5 4 0 0 81 9 160659
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 57 33 7 2 1 0 0 90 2 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 63 29 5 3 0 0 0 92 3 41

Ethical workplace

Question 17. I am satisfied with how interpersonal issues are resolved in my work unit.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 21 32 19 11 9 5 3 59 21 161064
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 28 31 13 11 4 8 5 68 18 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 28 23 10 16 3 13 7 64 23 39

Question 34. If I am faced with an ethical dilemma or a conflict between values in the workplace, I know where I can go for help in resolving the situation.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 31 38 14 9 5 2 1 71 15 161068
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 40 40 8 4 2 4 1 85 7 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 45 33 5 5 2 8 3 86 8 40

Question 35. My department or agency does a good job of promoting values and ethics in the workplace.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 30 38 18 8 5 1 0 69 13 160645
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 39 38 15 2 3 2 0 79 6 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 44 37 13 0 5 2 0 82 5 41

Question 36. I feel I can initiate a formal recourse process (e.g., grievance, complaint, appeal) without fear of reprisal.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 18 25 19 14 14 8 2 48 31 161057
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 20 28 18 12 6 13 2 57 21 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 20 22 15 7 12 19 5 55 26 41

Harassment

Harassment is normally a series of incidents, but it can be one severe incident that has a lasting impact on the individual.
Harassment is any improper conduct by an individual that is directed at and offensive to another individual in the workplace, including at any event or any location related to work, and that the individual knew or ought reasonably to have known would cause offence or harm. It comprises objectionable act(s), comment(s) or display(s) that demean, belittle, or cause personal humiliation or embarrassment, and any act of intimidation or threat. It also includes harassment within the meaning of the Canadian Human Rights Act (i.e., based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, genetic characteristics [including a requirement to undergo a genetic test, or disclose the results of a genetic test], disability or conviction for an offence for which a pardon has been granted or in respect of which a record suspension has been ordered).

Question 48. Having carefully read the definition of harassment, have you been the victim of harassment on the job in the past 12 months?

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 15 85 161503
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 9 91 125

Question 49a. From whom did you experience harassment on the job? Co-workers

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 51 22721

Question 49b. From whom did you experience harassment on the job? Individuals with authority over me

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 62 22735

Question 49c. From whom did you experience harassment on the job? Individuals working for me

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 8 22696
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 0 11

Question 49d. From whom did you experience harassment on the job? Individuals for whom I have a custodial responsibility (e.g., inmates, offenders, patients, detainees)

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 5 22696
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 0 11

Question 49e. From whom did you experience harassment on the job? Individuals from other departments or agencies

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 6 22696

Question 49f. From whom did you experience harassment on the job? Members of the public (individuals or organizations)

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 10 22712

Question 49g. From whom did you experience harassment on the job? Other

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 4 22694
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 0 11

Question 50a. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Aggressive behaviour

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 40 22709
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 50 10

Question 50b. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Excessive control

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 40 22697

Question 50c. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Being excluded or being ignored

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 46 22698

Question 50d. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Humiliation

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 41 22706
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 50 10

Question 50e. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Interference with work / withholding resources

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 33 22690

Question 50f. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Offensive remark

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 56 22722

Question 50g. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Personal attack

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 36 22699
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 50 10

Question 50h. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Physical violence

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 2 22678

Question 50i. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Sexual comment or gesture

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 10 22693

Question 50j. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Threat

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 13 22689
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 0 10

Question 50k. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Unfair treatment

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 48 22704

Question 50l. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Yelling / shouting

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 27 22702

Question 50m. Please indicate the nature of the harassment you experienced. Other

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 15 22687

Question 51a. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I discussed the matter with my supervisor or a senior manager.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 51 22718
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 46 11

Question 51b. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I discussed the matter with the person(s) from whom I experienced the harassment.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 27 22701

Question 51c. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I contacted a human resources advisor in my department or agency.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 8 22688

Question 51d. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I contacted my union representative.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 20 22699

Question 51e. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I used an informal conflict resolution process.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 10 22689
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 0 11

Question 51f. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I filed a grievance or formal complaint.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 7 22692

Question 51g. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I resolved the matter informally on my own.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 14 22692

Question 51h. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? Other

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 11 22688

Question 51i. What action(s) did you take to address the harassment you experienced? I took no action.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 27 22709

Question 52a. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? The issue was resolved.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 11 21200

Question 52b. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I did not think the incident was serious enough.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 19 21197

Question 52c. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? The behaviour stopped.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 10 21191

Question 52d. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? The individual apologized.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 7 21189
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 0 10

Question 52e. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? Management intervened.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 10 21189
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 0 10

Question 52f. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? The individual left or changed jobs.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 9 21189
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 0 10

Question 52g. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I changed jobs.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 10 21188

Question 52h. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I did not know what to do, where to go or whom to ask.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 11 21193

Question 52i. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I was too distraught.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 12 21192

Question 52j. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I had concerns about the formal complaint process (e.g., confidentiality, how long it would take).

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 30 21199

Question 52k. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I was advised against filing a complaint.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 9 21189
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 0 10

Question 52l. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I was afraid of reprisal (e.g., having limited career advancement, being labelled a troublemaker).

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 47 21214

Question 52m. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? Someone threatened me.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 2 21187

Question 52n. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I did not believe it would make a difference.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 56 21220

Question 52o. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? I intend to file a grievance or a formal complaint but I have not done so yet.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 4 21191
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 0 10

Question 52p. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the harassment you experienced? Other

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 13 21192

Question 53. I am satisfied with how matters related to harassment are resolved in my department or agency.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 16 19 21 8 8 23 5 48 22 161102
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 18 17 20 3 4 31 6 57 11 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 15 17 14 5 3 41 5 60 14 41

Question 54. My department or agency works hard to create a workplace that prevents harassment.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 29 31 18 7 6 7 1 66 14 161060
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 23 36 23 3 2 12 0 67 6 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 17 46 12 5 0 20 0 78 6 41

Discrimination

Discrimination means treating someone differently or unfairly because of a personal characteristic or distinction, which, whether intentional or not, has an effect that imposes disadvantages not imposed on others or that withholds or limits access that is given to others. There are 13 prohibited grounds of discrimination under the Canadian Human Rights Act (i.e., based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, genetic characteristics [including a requirement to undergo a genetic test, or disclose the results of a genetic test], disability or conviction for an offence for which a pardon has been granted or in respect of which a record suspension has been ordered).

Question 55. Having carefully read the definition of discrimination, have you been the victim of discrimination on the job in the past 12 months?

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 8 92 161188
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 6 94 127

Question 56a. From whom did you experience discrimination on the job? Co-workers

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 36 11806

Question 56b. From whom did you experience discrimination on the job? Individuals with authority over me

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 77 11826

Question 56c. From whom did you experience discrimination on the job? Individuals working for me

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 4 11797

Question 56d. From whom did you experience discrimination on the job? Individuals for whom I have a custodial responsibility (e.g., inmates, offenders, patients, detainees)

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 4 11797

Question 56e. From whom did you experience discrimination on the job? Individuals from other departments or agencies

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 7 11798

Question 56f. From whom did you experience discrimination on the job? Members of the public (individuals or organizations)

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 9 11802

Question 56g. From whom did you experience discrimination on the job? Other

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 8 11798

Question 57a. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Race

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 25 11790

Question 57b. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. National or ethnic origin

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 20 11790

Question 57c. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Colour

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 15 11786

Question 57d. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Religion

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 6 11784

Question 57e. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Age

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 26 11787

Question 57f. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Sex

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 29 11792

Question 57g. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Sexual orientation

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 4 11783

Question 57h. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Gender identity or expression (including gender diverse identities or expressions such as transgender, two-spirit, or non-binary)

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 2 11782

Question 57i. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Marital status

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 8 11785

Question 57j. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Family status

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 15 11787

Question 57k. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Genetic characteristics (including a requirement to undergo a genetic test, or disclose the results of a genetic test)

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 1 11782

Question 57l. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Disability

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 17 11791

Question 57m. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Pardoned conviction or suspended record

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 0 11783

Question 57n. Please indicate the type of discrimination you experienced. Other

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 19 11797

Question 58a. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I discussed the matter with my supervisor or a senior manager.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 29 11822

Question 58b. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I discussed the matter with the person(s) from whom I experienced the discrimination.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 15 11810

Question 58c. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I contacted a human resources advisor in my department or agency.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 5 11809

Question 58d. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I contacted my union representative.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 17 11817

Question 58e. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I used an informal conflict resolution process.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 4 11805

Question 58f. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I filed a grievance or formal complaint.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 6 11807

Question 58g. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I resolved the matter informally on my own.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 9 11806

Question 58h. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? Other

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 9 11808

Question 58i. What action(s) did you take to address the discrimination you experienced? I took no action.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 49 11821

Question 59a. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? The issue was resolved.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 5 11053

Question 59b. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I did not think the incident was serious enough.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 13 11052

Question 59c. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? The behaviour stopped.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 3 11049

Question 59d. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? The individual apologized.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 2 11050

Question 59e. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? Management intervened.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 3 11051

Question 59f. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? The individual left or changed jobs.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 4 11049

Question 59g. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I changed jobs.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 7 11051

Question 59h. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I did not know what to do, where to go or whom to ask.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 11 11053

Question 59i. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I was too distraught.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 11 11055

Question 59j. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I had concerns about the formal complaint process (e.g., confidentiality, how long it would take).

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 27 11058

Question 59k. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I was advised against filing a complaint.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 9 11054

Question 59l. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I was afraid of reprisal (e.g., having limited career advancement, being labelled a troublemaker).

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 45 11069

Question 59m. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? Someone threatened me.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 2 11050

Question 59n. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I did not believe it would make a difference.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 64 11072

Question 59o. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? I intend to file a grievance or a formal complaint but I have not done so yet.

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 4 11051

Question 59p. Why did you not file a grievance or formal complaint about the discrimination you experienced? Other

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 13 11050

Question 60. I am satisfied with how matters related to discrimination are resolved in my department or agency.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 18 18 24 4 4 26 5 53 12 161075
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 17 16 19 2 2 39 7 59 6 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 15 10 17 2 0 51 5 56 5 41

Question 61. My department or agency works hard to create a workplace that prevents discrimination.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 30 31 19 5 4 10 1 69 10 161053
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 23 33 22 2 2 18 0 68 5 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 20 34 15 2 0 30 0 76 3 41
Top of Page

Workplace well-being

A psychologically healthy workplace

Question 25. My immediate supervisor seems to care about me as a person.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 52 26 10 5 5 1 0 80 10 160320
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 58 26 8 3 4 1 0 85 7 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 62 15 10 5 5 2 0 79 11 39

Question 65. My department or agency does a good job of raising awareness of mental health in the workplace.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 29 40 16 8 4 2 0 71 13 161108
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 60 32 5 3 0 0 0 92 3 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 73 24 3 0 0 0 0 97 0 41

Question 66. I would describe my workplace as being psychologically healthy.

A psychologically healthy workplace is one that promotes employees’ psychological well-being and actively works to prevent harm to employee psychological health due to negligent, reckless or intentional acts.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 23 35 18 13 10 2 0 59 23 161341
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 33 38 15 8 4 2 1 72 12 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 39 34 13 12 2 0 0 73 15 41

Work-related stress

Question 62a. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Pay or other compensation-related issues

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 21 24 22 14 18 0 1 46 32 161369
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 41 27 17 8 8 0 0 67 16 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 44 31 14 5 5 0 0 76 10 41

Question 62b. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Heavy workload

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 18 27 28 16 11 0 1 45 27 161255
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 14 24 26 23 12 0 1 39 35 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 12 27 36 17 8 0 0 39 25 41

Question 62c. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Unreasonable deadlines

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 25 29 24 13 8 0 2 55 21 160603
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 22 32 25 11 8 0 2 55 19 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 27 32 22 12 7 0 0 58 20 41

Question 62d. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Not enough employees to do the work

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 20 23 23 17 15 1 1 44 32 160732
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 16 21 21 23 18 0 2 37 41 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 17 25 26 22 10 0 0 42 32 41

Question 62e. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Overtime or long work hours

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 46 23 13 6 4 0 6 75 11 160698
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 43 29 13 9 3 0 3 75 12 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 44 36 5 12 3 0 0 80 15 41

Question 62f. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Balancing work and personal life

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 30 27 21 11 9 0 1 58 20 161068
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 27 31 22 15 3 0 2 59 19 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 37 27 17 12 5 0 2 65 18 41

Question 62g. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Lack of control or input in decision-making

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 25 33 23 10 6 1 1 59 17 160799
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 30 36 27 5 2 0 0 66 8 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 30 30 30 7 3 0 0 60 10 40

Question 62h. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Competing or constantly changing priorities

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 21 31 25 14 8 1 1 53 22 160760
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 31 32 16 13 7 0 2 63 20 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 33 25 20 17 3 0 2 59 20 40

Question 62i. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Lack of clear expectations

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 27 31 22 12 7 0 1 59 19 160624
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 27 38 19 12 4 0 1 65 16 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 22 32 23 12 8 0 2 56 21 40

Question 62j. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Information overload

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 27 31 22 12 7 0 1 59 18 160191
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 34 28 19 12 4 1 2 64 16 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 25 30 25 10 8 0 2 56 18 40

Question 62k. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Physical work environment

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 50 25 13 6 4 0 2 76 10 160099
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 59 16 12 8 5 0 0 75 13 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 52 15 20 10 3 0 0 68 13 40

Question 62l. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Accessibility or accommodation issues

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 67 16 7 3 3 1 5 87 6 160330
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 80 8 2 4 1 1 4 92 5 124
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 80 5 2 8 0 0 5 89 8 40

Question 62m. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Harassment or discrimination

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 67 14 7 4 4 1 3 84 9 160420
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 77 11 2 4 1 2 2 93 5 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 77 5 5 5 0 3 5 89 5 40

Question 62n. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Issue(s) with my co-worker(s)

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 52 27 11 4 3 0 1 81 7 160968
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 59 25 9 3 0 1 3 88 3 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 59 26 5 5 0 2 2 90 5 41

Question 62o. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Issue(s) with individuals with authority over me

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 53 22 11 6 6 0 1 76 12 160500
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 58 22 8 6 4 0 2 82 10 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 44 27 10 12 5 0 2 72 17 41

Question 62p. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Issue(s) with individual(s) working for me

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 52 13 6 2 1 0 26 88 4 159765
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 56 11 5 1 1 0 27 91 2 123
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 51 17 2 0 0 0 30 97 0 40

Question 62q. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Issue(s) with other individual(s) (e.g., members of the public, individuals from other departments or agencies)

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 61 20 9 3 2 0 6 86 4 160250
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 68 14 11 2 1 0 4 85 3 124
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 73 12 10 0 0 0 5 90 0 41

Question 62r. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Lack of job security

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 64 15 7 4 5 0 4 83 10 160852
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 79 5 7 2 2 1 4 88 4 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 76 5 7 2 3 2 5 87 5 41

Question 62s. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Personal issues

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 48 29 14 4 2 0 2 79 7 160646
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 49 33 9 3 2 0 4 86 5 125
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 49 29 10 5 5 0 2 80 10 41

Question 63. Overall, my level of work-related stress is…

Survey year Organization Very low
(%)
Low
(%)
Moderate
(%)
High
(%)
Very high
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 13 31 36 14 5 0 0 45 19 161633
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 12 30 34 18 6 0 0 42 24 127
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 7 46 27 17 3 0 0 53 20 41

Question 64. After my workday, I feel emotionally drained.

Survey year Organization Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 10 20 38 22 10 0 0 32 30 159815
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 9 22 28 30 10 0 0 40 32 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 5 20 24 36 15 0 0 51 25 41
Top of Page

Compensation

Pay or other compensation issues

Question 67. To what extent has your pay or other compensation been affected by issues with the Phoenix pay system?

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 29 26 20 11 11 2 1 30 70 161576
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 35 31 17 6 9 2 0 36 64 126
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 42 27 17 7 5 2 0 43 57 41

Question 68a. Please indicate which of the following pay or other compensation issues you have experienced: Missing regular pay

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 23 109172
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 37 79
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 35 23

Question 68b. Please indicate which of the following pay or other compensation issues you have experienced: Underpayment of regular pay

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 35 109188
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 34 79
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 31 23

Question 68c. Please indicate which of the following pay or other compensation issues you have experienced: Overpayment of regular pay

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 23 109138
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 27 79
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 34 23

Question 68d. Please indicate which of the following pay or other compensation issues you have experienced: Incorrect or missing acting pay, overtime pay or other related extra duty pay

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 44 109210
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 46 79
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 43 23

Question 68e. Please indicate which of the following pay or other compensation issues you have experienced: Incorrect or missing pay relating to a disability, maternity, or parental leave

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 7 109103
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 4 79
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 0 23

Question 68f. Please indicate which of the following pay or other compensation issues you have experienced: Incorrect or missing retroactive pay

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 33 109160
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 23 79
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 18 23

Question 68g. Please indicate which of the following pay or other compensation issues you have experienced: Other

Survey year Organization
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 34 109157
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 27 79
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 17 23

Question 69. Please estimate the number of hours you have spent, at work or outside of work, attempting to resolve your pay or other compensation issue(s).

Survey year Organization 0 hours
(%)
1 to 9 hours
(%)
10 to 19 hours
(%)
20 to 29 hours
(%)
30 to 39 hours
(%)
40 hours or more
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 6 41 19 11 5 19 104045
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 9 54 14 9 0 14 78
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 9 52 13 13 0 13 23

Question 70. Have all your pay or other compensation issues been resolved?

Survey year Organization Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 35 65 108456
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 59 41 79
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 74 26 23

Question 73. To what extent have issues with the Phoenix pay system affected your decision to seek or accept another position (e.g., deployment, promotion, secondment, assignment, acting assignment) within your organization or the federal public service?

Survey year Organization Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 42 16 13 9 11 1 8 63 22 161026
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 43 15 17 9 8 1 7 63 18 124
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 55 10 20 5 0 0 10 72 5 40

Support to resolve pay or other compensation issues

Question 71. I am satisfied with the support (e.g., regular information, follow-up, making enquiries on my behalf, offering emergency or priority pay) I received from my department or agency to help resolve my pay or other compensation issues.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 11 22 18 18 23 2 6 36 44 108900
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 49 29 9 2 4 1 5 84 7 79
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 44 39 9 4 0 4 0 86 4 23

Question 72. I am satisfied with the support I received from the Pay Centre to help resolve my pay or other compensation issues.

Survey year Organization Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 Public Service 5 13 16 19 39 2 7 19 63 108928
2018 Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada 8 4 9 9 21 9 41 23 60 79
2018 Policy and Promotion Sector 9 0 9 13 13 5 52 20 60 23
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