Statement from the Translation Bureau regarding new procurement process for interpretation services

November 3, 2025 - Gatineau, Quebec                          

On October 24, 2025, Public Services and Procurement Canada published a request for standing offers for interpretation services on CanadaBuys. The initial closing date is November 24, 2025, and is open to suppliers already accredited by the Translation Bureau. A second closing date in mid-December will be offered to suppliers proposing interpreters who may be accredited following the November 2025 examination sessions.

The quality of interpretation is at the heart of our mission. It’s ensured through a rigorous accreditation process, conducted by the Translation Bureau, and through ongoing monitoring. The freelancers in our network, who provide nearly 40% of the interpretation services to Parliament, all have the same quality index, proving that the Bureau's accreditation is a good tool for measuring the skills required in a demanding environment such as Parliament. They provide ongoing support to our staff interpreters and allow us to meet the high expectations of our parliamentary clients.

That said, we also have a responsibility to manage public funds rigorously. Since 2019, the daily rate for freelance interpreters has increased by nearly 70%. As such, we must be financially desciplined without compromising quality or health and safety in order to ensure the sustainability and efficiency of our services.

The industry was consulted on the proposed changes through a request for information launched in June 2025. All comments received were taken into account and changes were made to the Request for Standing Offers, including a return to a daily rate, recognition of health and safety obligations, and the addition of service quality expectations and procedures for managing any breaches of these expectations.

In the new tool, work will now be assigned on a priority basis to accredited suppliers offering the best rates when several of them are available and meet the criteria for language profile, security clearance and region. Under contracts expiring in December 2025, work is assigned randomly when accredited suppliers meet the selection criteria. In addition, the performance of accredited suppliers will continue to be evaluated according to recognized standards applicable to the interpreting profession.

Occupational health and safety will continue to be top priorities for the Translation Bureau. The Bureau continuously applies protective measures based on technological advances and research in audiology and acoustics for all interpreters, whether they are employees or suppliers. Thanks to these measures, incidents have decreased by 60% since 2020. The new procurement tool includes health and safety provisions similar to those in current contracts, and the Translation Bureau will continue to require meeting organizers to comply with the most stringent requirements to protect all interpreters.

The Translation Bureau will hold its accreditation exam on November 7, 2025. A significant number of candidates have registered for the exam to date. We’re proud of the interest shown by the industry in obtaining accreditation from the Translation Bureau.

We remain fully committed to providing quality interpretation services tailored to the needs of our clients, budgetary realities and the expectations of Canadians.