The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) is poised to go on strike.
Postal workers from the Urban Operations unit and the Rural and Suburban Mail Carriers (RSMC) unit voted overwhelmingly on a strike mandate.
CUPW members from across Canada voted between Sept. 9 and Oct. 20, and announced that more than 95 per cent are prepared to take strike action against Canada Post as of Nov. 3, if no agreement is reached.
Canada Post sent out a release saying, "It is critical that both parties focus their energies on resolving outstanding issues to reach negotiated agreements.
"A labour disruption would have significant consequences for the businesses we serve and the millions of Canadians who rely on Canada Post, while deepening the company’s already serious financial situation."
The Union says it is advocating for fair wages, safe working conditions, and the right to retire with dignity while protecting a vital public service that supports communities everywhere.
"We recognize the challenges our employer is facing, and our goal is not to simply make demands, but to work together toward solutions that support the long-term success of our public post office, while addressing the real struggles our members face daily," said Jan Simpson, CUPW National President.
CUPW has been bargaining new contracts with Canada Post since November, 2023.
According to Canada Post, it presented proposals on Sept. 25 that would protect and enhance what’s important to employees, within the Corporation’s financial constraints, while making the changes that are necessary to better serve Canadians and Canadian businesses in today’s demanding parcel delivery market.
However, the proposal was inadequate for CUPW, who said the round of bargaining had been challenging and intricate.
Negotiators cited new challenges stemming from changes in postal work, such as the ongoing surge in parcel volumes that has heavily impacted postal workers. Additionally, there are unresolved issues from previous bargaining rounds.
"Our negotiators are committed to securing a fair agreement for all postal workers," said Simpson. "We won't settle for anything less.
"Our members have made it clear that action will be taken if Canada Post fails to present solutions that ensure fair working conditions and expanded services for everyone."
The cooling off period ends Nov. 2, and after this date, either party would be in a position to initiate a labour disruption (following a minimum notice of 72 hours). This timeline means no labour disruption can occur before Nov. 3.
Canada Post executives warned last month that the Crown corporation’s financial situation is “unsustainable”, as it strives to compete against e-commerce platforms and delivery companies.
A strike at this time would severely affect its peak delivery season, with Black Friday and Christmas sales on the immediate horizon.
