PSPC sparks backlash as it eyes shift to ‘lowest-bid’ approach to Hill freelance interpretation assignments

The International Association of Conference Interpreters Canada wants to see PSPC’s proposed changes put ‘on ice until we have an opportunity to talk and sort this out,’ says spokesperson Nicole Gagnon.

Freelance interpreters, whose current contracts had been set to expire on June 30, have been offered six-month extensions as Public Services and Procurement Canada seeks to introduce a new Standing Offer. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

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BY LAURA RYCKEWAERT

July 29, 2025

Public Services and Procurement Canada is looking to revamp its contracting process for interpretation services for Parliament Hill and other “high-level events,” but the proposed changes, which include a shift to awarding work based on “lowest bid” rather than “be...

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