The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), which represents approximately 55,000 employees, has announced a nationwide strike following unsuccessful negotiations with Canada Post. The union declared the strike action in the early hours of Friday, November 15.
The union has been engaged in a year-long negotiation process with Canada Post, but with minimal progress. The postal employees were left with no other choice but to strike when the corporation threatened to alter their working conditions and left them vulnerable to job cuts.
The CUPW stated that their demands are reasonable and include fair pay, safe work environment, the right to retire with dignity, and the expansion of services at the public post office. The union insists that a strike is their last option and they are still hopeful that a negotiated agreement can be reached if Canada Post is willing to address their concerns and outstanding issues.
Earlier this week, the CUPW had issued a 72-hour strike notice. In response, Canada Post announced its own lockout plans, effective from Friday. The corporation also indicated that its collective agreements with both rural and urban workers would no longer be in effect.
This is not the first time that Canada Post workers have gone on strike. Similar actions were taken in 2011 and 2018. In both instances, the federal government intervened with back-to-work legislation to end the strikes.
The strike comes at a critical time with the holiday season approaching, which could significantly impact businesses. Matt Poirier, vice-president of federal government relations for the Retail Council of Canada, expressed concern, stating that this was the worst possible time for a work stoppage.
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business also expressed disappointment and urged both parties to reach an agreement. Ottawa is providing mediation support to both parties, with the hope of achieving a deal. If necessary, the government could consider imposing back-to-work legislation or binding arbitration to end the strike.
