Canada Post has delayed presenting its latest contract offer to its 55,000 workers, prolonging the postal strike. The Crown corporation initially planned to send a new offer to the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) last Friday but has now decided to reassess the offer in light of announced reforms by the federal government.
The government’s reforms call for Canada Post to terminate home delivery and shut down some rural mail outlets to stabilize its finances and ensure its survival. With projected losses of $1.5 billion in 2025, the Crown corporation is under pressure to make significant changes.
Negotiations for a new collective agreement have been ongoing for over a year and a half. CUPW’s Toronto Local president, Mark Lubinski, expressed hope that Canada Post’s revised offer would align with the union’s demands and end the strike.
Canada Post remains committed to reaching an agreement with CUPW that is affordable, supports its employees, and contributes to the company’s sustainable future. The corporation intends to present a revised offer promptly.
Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu has called on both parties to continue discussions to find a balance that secures the corporation’s future while respecting its workers. The ongoing contract dispute stems from the union’s dissatisfaction with Canada Post’s recent 13% pay increase offer, falling short of their demand for 19%.
As the holiday season approaches, the pressure mounts to resolve the dispute swiftly. Last year, a strike and lockout lasted over a month, concluding after the labor minister declared an impasse and ordered employees back to work.