Canada Post Implements Rotating Strikes Across Four Locations Including Two in British Columbia

Canada Post has initiated rotating strikes affecting four locations, including two in British Columbia. The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) shifted from a nationwide strike to this new model during the weekend. Postal workers will now participate in targeted strikes to minimize disruption while advocating for a fair collective agreement.

Details of the Rotating Strikes

As of Saturday, participating locations include Fort St. John and Dawson Creek in British Columbia, as well as Timmins, Ontario, and St. Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador.

Background of the Labor Action

The strikes follow a nationwide action that began on September 25, largely in response to government changes threatening to eliminate door-to-door mail delivery for most Canadians over the next decade. Stephen Gale, regional grievance officer for CUPW in B.C. and Yukon, emphasized the aim of the rotating strikes is to lessen community impact while maintaining pressure on Canada Post.

• Strike Locations:
  • Fort St. John, BC
  • Dawson Creek, BC
  • Timmins, ON
  • St. Anthony, NL
• Date of Labor Action: Started on September 25

Worker Impact and Community Reactions

Postal workers, like Aaron Loset from Dawson Creek, expressed concern over the implications for residents reliant on mail services, especially seniors. Loset mentioned, “Some days will be lighter, but there are days where I literally go to every address on my route.” Many community members are anxious about the financial strain of the strikes.

Mayor of Fort St. John, Lilia Hansen, commended the rotating strike model. She noted, “Canada Post employees — they are neighbors, they are family. Everybody wants to get to a resolution quickly.” Local businesses and residents depend greatly on postal services for their daily needs.

Canada Post’s Response

Canada Post acknowledged the strikes, warning customers about potential service interruptions. The Crown corporation expressed its willingness to return to negotiations and stated it had made a recent offer. This proposal includes a 13.59% wage increase over four years, health and retirement benefits, and up to seven weeks of vacation, but excludes a previously offered signing bonus.

Future Negotiations

The CUPW criticized Canada Post’s latest proposal as a regression in negotiations. Canada Post remains firm on its strategy to reduce operational costs, highlighting the urgent need to adapt the postal service to current demands.

The situation remains fluid. The CUPW has hinted at the possibility of resuming a nationwide strike if negotiations do not progress effectively.