November 8, 2023
Isolated Posts and Government Housing Directive (IPGHD)
On July 4, 2023, a communiqué was published stating that the Isolated Posts and Government Housing Committee finalized the revised methodology for the calculation of the Shelter Cost Differential. The purpose of this communiqué is to clarify the application of the shelter cost differential for employees in private accommodation.
The revised Shelter Cost Differential (SCD) methodology came into effect on August 1, 2023. The July 4, 2023, communiqué specified that the SCD applies to employees renting private accommodation or living in government housing. This clarification generated questions and concerns regarding the application of the SCD. As a result, additional information was sought from departments on how they were paying out the SCD, namely whether it was provided only to renters or to all employees including homeowners. The information received from departments confirmed that the SCD was being provided to all employees working in qualifying locations.
The Isolated Posts and Government Housing Committee has therefore discussed the application of the SCD for private accommodation, and through this communiqué is advising that the SCD is payable to employees renting or owning private accommodation (Appendix K-1), and to employees renting government housing (Appendix K-2).
Question 1 in the Frequently Asked Questions which was also published on July 4, 2023 has been adjusted to reflect this clarification.
The transitional provisions, as outlined in the July 4, 2023 communiqué, will apply to employees who are currently in receipt of the SCD who will be subject to a decrease in the SCD allowance or who are assigned to an isolated post that may no longer qualify for SCD. The first half of the amount of the decrease will be applied on December 1, 2023.
The Isolated Posts and Government Housing Committee is composed of representatives from Federal Public Service Bargaining Agents, the Employer and departments.
Enquiries about the IPGHD should be referred to your respective Bargaining Agent or Designated Departmental Coordinator.