Nov 12: The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) has issued a 72-hour strike notice to Canada Post over unresolved contract negotiations. Despite this escalation, Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon confirmed on Tuesday that the federal government has no immediate plans to intervene, expressing hope for a resolution at the bargaining table.
“We are hoping to achieve a deal at the table,” MacKinnon stated at a press conference. “The issues at hand in the Canada Post negotiations are substantial. They’re significant. There’s a lot of work to do, and I know the parties are negotiating today.” MacKinnon emphasized the government’s commitment to keeping both sides in discussion, saying, “We will make every effort possible to keep them at the table and keep them talking, and we hope to achieve a negotiated settlement there.”
The union’s demands include wage increases to match inflation, improved staffing provisions, additional paid medical days, paid meal and rest periods, and enhanced rights for temporary employees.
Both CUPW and Canada Post have voiced disappointment over the current state of negotiations. The union’s statement noted that while no decision has been made on immediate job actions, they will be legally in a position to strike starting Friday if a deal is not reached.
