We need far more political staffers, not fewer

There are an estimated 365,000 public servants who work for the federal government. There are fewer than 650 exempt staff in total. That’s 0.18 per cent of all the people paid by the feds. The political staff cost less than $90-million, compared to about $80-billion for the public service. Hardly a creeping majority. 
The Prime Minister's Office on Wellington Street in Ottawa. There are about 100 staffers working in the PMO.

OTTAWA—“There are no ends in administration. Only loose ends. Administration is eternal.”—Sir Humphrey Appleby in Yes, Minister

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 week’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

MORE Opinion

RELATED STORIES