The federal government tabled back-to-work legislation today in an effort to end the Canadian Union of Postal Workers’ (CUPW) rotating strikes, which are into their fifth week and have affected nearly all Canada Post facilities across the country.
If passed, the legislation would force workers to resume their duties.
“Negotiated agreements are always the best solution,” Labour Minister Patty Hajdu told the House of Commons today, after tabling the bill. “We wouldn’t come down this road; however, we have exhausted every option.”
In 2011, the former Conservative government passed “back to work” legislation – later deemed unconstitutional – to end the previous dispute between Canada Post and the CUPW.
“We went to court and won this fight after the 2011 legislation,” reads a statement issued by the CUPW yesterday. “We will fight once again, should that right be taken away.”
EXPECT LONG DELAYS
The postal service remains operational, but Canada Post has advised commercial customers it is unable to honour its delivery standards for any product.
While there are delays across the country, Canada Post expects the worst delays for items originating or are destined for southern and southwestern Ontario.