Thousands of Alberta government employees have begun returning to their offices full time following the end of the province’s hybrid work policy that was introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The hybrid option officially concluded on Sunday, affecting more than 12,000 provincial workers who had been splitting their time between home and office. The Alberta government says the decision reflects changing circumstances and a renewed focus on in person collaboration, supervision, and consistent public service delivery.

Provincial officials maintain that having staff back in offices will improve teamwork and responsiveness for Albertans who rely on government services. They say the move is part of a broader effort to normalize operations after years of pandemic related adjustments.

The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees, which represents about 9,000 of those affected, has raised concerns about the change. The union argues some members are being directed back to offices in part to support downtown businesses and local economies, a claim the provincial government has denied.

Labour representatives say they continue to hear from members who feel the hybrid model allowed for better work life balance without reducing productivity. The government has not indicated whether any flexible work options will return in the future.