Canada Post Strike Looms

Canada Post Strike Looms

theglobeandmail.com

Canada Post Strike Looms

Canada Post faces a potential nationwide strike as the union representing its workers issued a 72-hour strike notice over work conditions and wages.

English
Canada
Labour MarketNegotiationsStrikeLaborUnionDelivery
Canadian Union Of Postal Workers (Cupw)Canada PostAmazonWal-MartCanada Industrial Relations Board (Cirb)
Jan SimpsonMichael OrphenStephen HarperAdam KingStephanie RossLarry SavageSteven Mackinnon
What are the main points of contention between CUPW and Canada Post?
Key issues in the labor dispute include wages (CUPW demands 24%, Canada Post offered 11.5%), benefits, sick leave, and the "separate sort from delivery" system. Canada Post is also pushing for a more flexible delivery model including seven-day parcel delivery, which CUPW opposes.
What is the likelihood of a strike, and what are the political implications?
The likelihood of a strike is high given the strong union support (95% voted in favor) and the many unresolved issues. The Liberal government faces political pressure, as using back-to-work legislation may be less palatable now than in 2018.
What actions are the Canadian government taking in response to the potential strike?
The Labour Minister is urging both sides to keep negotiating to avoid a strike, while exploring options such as involving the Canada Industrial Relations Board for dispute resolution.
What prompted the Canadian Union of Postal Workers to issue a 72-hour strike notice?
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) issued a 72-hour strike notice, potentially disrupting mail delivery nationwide. The dispute centers on work conditions, including longer hours and a "separate sort from delivery" system that the union argues creates health and safety issues.
What is the financial state of Canada Post, and how has the potential strike affected its operations?
Canada Post has been losing money since 2018 due to declining letter mail and parcel revenue. The corporation's parcel volumes have also declined by 28% since CUPW announced its strike mandate.