The failed $5-billion program the feds can’t shake

With the deployment of 200 people and the use of AI in some instances, the Phoenix backlog is gradually coming under control, but a new, unexpected problem has arisen.

Alex Benay, the associate deputy minister at Public Services and Procurement Canada in whose lap this mess has landed, estimated on June 23 that the cost of fixing and replacing Phoenix would be $5.1-billion, writes Les Whittington.The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Opinion

BY LES WHITTINGTON

July 2, 2025

OTTAWA—Much is being said about Prime Minister Mark Carney’s determination to turn around the massive vessel known as the federal bureaucracy to overcome built-in inertia and achieve faster, more efficient results helped along by digital innovations.

To keep reading, subscribe and become a political insider.

Only $7.76 a week for an annual subscription.

Enjoy unlimited website access and the digital newspaper.

Cancel anytime.

Already a Subscriber?

Get Weekend Point of View Newsletter

A round up of the past weekâ€™s opinion writers and columnists on Saturdays and Sundays.

By entering your email address you consent to receive email from The Hill Times containing news, analysis, updates and offers. You may unsubscribe at any time. See our privacy policy