Performance Pay at the Bargaining Table

April 30, 2026 | Bargaining Update

It is the time of year for the results of the performance review and pay process for CIPP members at the City of Ottawa. We have heard once again from many members just how frustrated they are with the outdated performance pay policy at the City. We know that the system as it stands today is administered inequitably and that it leaves more members confused than rewarded.

In December, we released our bargaining priorities overview for 2026. As part of that package, we outlined our ambition to convert the current performance pay system into a retention pay plan where members would receive a percentage based on their years of service. However, performance pay is not a new issue at the table.

The CIPP Negotiating Committee has brought performance pay to the bargaining table to multiple rounds. Your employers’ lack of movement on performance pay has become an ongoing sign of disrespect to many members. Year after year, members have made it clear that performance pay creates confusion, frustration, and concerns around unfairness and legitimacy. We know that there are more appropriate ways to incentivize performance by skilled and committed public sector professionals than a meagerly funded performance bonus that was capped at $600,000 in 2009!

There is a role for every single CIPP member in getting the respect you deserve at the bargaining table. Your negotiating committee continues to meet with your employer and is making progress. Our goal is to continue productive conversations at the bargaining table, but your support is needed to ensure that your employer feels compelled to meaningfully engage in negotiations.

Fair compensation continues to be a top priority for members, and your negotiating committee is doing everything to advocate for the respect that you deserve, whether that’s for a fair wage increase, updated leaves and benefits, or issues like performance pay. If you are interested in supporting the work of your negotiating committee, please consider joining the Connect member network.