City of Montreal aims to cut 1,000 positions in next 4 years

The Martinez Ferrada administration says it intends to eliminate 1,000 positions over the next four years with the goal of “better serving Montrealers.”

The mayor says it’s part of a major restructuring of the city’s civil service.

“Starting today and for the years to come, we want a more agile, more efficient city that is closer to the people. We want to simplify the process, streamline the structure, and generate savings,” Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada said.

“Let me be very clear: this approach is in no way causing to question the competence or the commitment of city employees and their teams.

“Behind every position and every department are dedicated women and men who work every day to serve the people of Montreal. The decisions we are announcing today are not easy. They were not taken lightly. Nevertheless, they are necessary. It is our responsibility as an administration.”

The city estimates cutting those positions will lead to savings of $16 million for 2026.

“We’re announcing today three main measures: the review of the city organization, the review of the city structure, a review of head count, and the comprehensive examination of the city’s expenses and activities,” said Claude Pinard, the president of the executive committee.

The first steps in the administration’s reorganization for the city were taken in the fall with the implementation of a hiring freeze for white-collar and professional staff positions, and the appointment freeze for management positions.

The Montreal mayor says she’s trying to end the “disconnect” between tax-paying citizens and the services they receive.

“The impression is that they’re paying more and receive less,” she said. “Our goal is simple: to better serve Montrealers.”