Thousands of federal public servants are on the picket lines today after the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) failed to reach a deal on a new contract with the federal government before a Tuesday night deadline.

The main picket line in Greater Moncton is in front of the Dominion Building on Main Street, while others have been set up in front of the Assomption Building (CRA), at Service Canada (95 Foundry Street), and in Shediac at the federal pension centre and Beausejour MP Dominic LeBlanc’s office.

Greater Moncton PSAC spokesperson Sebastien Ouellette said members have been preparing for this strike for weeks.

“Our members are anxious. They’re worried, they’re suffering, and they’re having trouble paying their bills.”

Ouellette said no one wants to be on the picket line but members felt they had no choice.

PSAC picket sign (91.9 The Bend)

“We are going to do what’s needed and sacrifice what’s needed so that the government can treat us with respect and treat Canadians with respect.”

Ouellette said employees are considered essential so while there may be delays for some services such as Employment Insurance, Canada Pension, passports or taxes (Canada Revenue Agency), there will be no work stoppages.