In 2019, Jordan Morrison, a recent college graduate with multiple job offers, chose to begin his career in IT with the federal government in Ottawa. He envisioned “a really bright future,” but that future has been significantly impacted by ongoing issues with the Phoenix pay system.
A Decade of Disruption
Ten years after its launch, the federal government’s Phoenix payroll system continues to cause hardship for tens of thousands of public servants. As of 2026, a backlog of 233,000 cases awaits processing, and the system has already cost taxpayers nearly $5 billion. Morrison’s experience exemplifies the system’s failures.
Initially underpaid for years, Morrison eventually received a notice claiming he had been overpaid. He estimates the government still owes him roughly $60,000, but obtaining an accurate accounting has proven impossible, as Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has stated it does not track underpayments due to the complexity of the system.
The stress of these ongoing pay issues led Morrison to leave the public service in 2023 on his doctor’s advice. He is now among a growing number of younger workers departing the federal public service; recent statistics show those aged 20-29 have had the highest rate of departure over the previous two fiscal years.
Ongoing Financial Strain
Even after leaving his position, Morrison continues to face financial repercussions. The government, through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), is still attempting to recover an alleged overpayment of $18,973.40, and has indicated it could garnish his wages or seize his assets. He currently owes $6,482.93 as of January.
Morrison has been forced to borrow money from friends and family and is facing uncertainty as his current contract nears its end this March. He reflects on the lost opportunities and financial setbacks caused by the pay system errors, questioning where he would be today had these issues not occurred.
What’s Next?
PSPC declined to comment on Morrison’s individual case, but acknowledged the stress caused by overpayment recovery. Continued pressure from affected employees and advocacy groups could lead to a review of the system’s processes. However, given the scale of the backlog and the complexity of the issues, a full resolution could capture considerable time. It is also possible that the government will continue to face challenges in recruiting and retaining young professionals if the Phoenix system remains unreliable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Jordan Morrison?
Jordan Morrison experienced years of pay errors with the federal government’s Phoenix pay system, including periods of being underpaid and then being told he was overpaid. This led to significant financial and mental health challenges, ultimately prompting him to leave his position.
How much money does the Phoenix pay system cost taxpayers?
The Phoenix pay system has cost taxpayers nearly $5 billion so far, according to the source.
What is being done to address the Phoenix pay system issues?
PSPC has not commented on specific solutions for individual cases, but acknowledges the stress caused by overpayment recovery and states there are flexible repayment options available.
As the federal government continues to grapple with the fallout from the Phoenix pay system, what responsibility does it have to those whose careers and financial well-being have been negatively impacted?
