Ontario Science Centre laying off entire science department

The Ontario Science Centre has announced the termination of 30 employees, including the entire science department, as part of a restructuring effort. Science centre CEO Paul Kortenaar informed staff during a meeting on Thursday about the elimination of live exhibits, the science department, the business development department, and security. Kortenaar anticipates that new positions will become available in the future.

The union representing the affected workers informed employees on Thursday that the total number of unionized employees would decrease from 166 to 136 due to organizational changes. According to the union, only one staff member affected by the cuts has been offered alternative permanent employment within the public service. Raluca Ellis, President of OPSEU/SEFPO Local 549, expressed concern over the elimination of the Science Unit, stating, "How can you have an Ontario Science Centre with no Science Unit? With these job cuts, over 540 years of combined service would be eliminated."

The Ontario Science Centre was abruptly closed in the summer of 2024 by the province due to engineering deficiencies found in the roof, despite the structure withstanding record snowfall and rainfall in the preceding two years. Critics have questioned the decision, as the government is currently constructing a new $1-billion science centre at Ontario Place.