In most deputy ministers’ offices, it would be an unusual scene.
In Samy Watson’s Agriculture Canada office, it is not typical, but also not uncommon.
At 9 o’clock one morning earlier this year, 12 departmental employees filed into the deputy agriculture minister’s office for coffee, doughnuts and a chat.
More than two hours later, they emerged largely enthusiastic.
“I loved the show,” said one of the employees, who asked that her name not be used.
“He’s dynamic, he’s young, he’s bright. I’ve been here 12 years and I’ve never seen anything like it. It was a breath of fresh air.”
Read Also
Agriculture ministers agree to AgriStability changes
federal government proposed several months ago to increase the compensation rate from 80 to 90 per cent and double the maximum payment from $3 million to $6 million
When an early morning slot opens in Watson’s schedule, he sometimes sends an e-mail to all department employees, inviting them for an informal continental breakfast in his office at the Sir John Carling building on the edge of Ottawa’s Experimental Farm. The first 12 who respond are invited.
Watson encourages the employees to talk about whatever they want.
On this morning, questions ranged from Agriculture Canada’s international policy to the departmental policy on advancing minority, francophone and female employees.
“He was very open and he answered in ways we could understand,” the employee said.
After more than two hours, when all questions had been answered and comments invited and made, the group broke up.
“It was amazing,” said the employee. “When you are a peon like me, you usually just get to talk to your managers. This gave us a broader and more sophisticated view of where the department is headed. It was wonderful.”
Some in the department also see it as a way for Watson to keep his middle managers on their toes by going outside the normal hierarchy.
One Agriculture Canada worker told the story of a colleague returning from breakfast with Watson, only to be called into his director’s office to be queried about what was discussed.
“I consider it confidential,” he said.
“You’ll have to call upstairs if you want to know more.”
