Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) remain engaged in contract negotiations, as CUPW announced it has received a strike mandate from its members.
The two sides have been in talks since Nov. 15, 2023, and negotiations have intensified following the strike announcement. Both parties say they are working under a sense of urgency to reach agreements before any potential labour disruption, which could start as early as Nov. 3.
Canada Post emphasizes the importance of resolving the issues at hand to prevent a disruption that could impact millions of Canadians who depend on the postal service, particularly during the holiday season. The company also faces significant financial pressures, having recorded a $490-million operational loss in the first half of 2024 and accumulating $3 billion in losses between 2018 and 2023. These challenges, Canada Post states, necessitate changes to its delivery model to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
Canada Post has put forward several proposals, which it says are aimed at protecting the interests of its employees while addressing its financial realities. Key elements of these proposals include annual wage increases of 10 per cent over four years (10.4 percent compounded), protection of defined benefit pensions, job security, and health benefits for current employees. Additionally, the proposals include transitioning Rural and Suburban Mail Carriers (RSMC) to an hourly pay rate and providing improved leave entitlements.
The Corporation also supports CUPW’s suggestion for a future merger of the RSMC and Urban bargaining units, indicating a willingness to work towards a unified collective agreement for both groups. This, they argue, would help streamline negotiations and create consistency across the workforce.
CUPW has presented counter-offers, and negotiations between the two parties continue with federal mediators now involved. The conciliation period ended on Oct. 12, moving the talks into a 21-day cooling-off period set to expire on Nov. 2. Following that date, either side would be in a position to initiate a labour disruption, provided a minimum 72-hour notice is given.
Canada Post reiterates its goal of reaching negotiated agreements without resorting to work stoppages, emphasizing its commitment to finding common ground. Meanwhile, CUPW is leveraging its strike mandate to push for improved conditions for its members, aiming to secure terms that reflect the needs and expectations of postal workers in the current market environment.
Both sides acknowledge the stakes involved, as the outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications not only for employees but also for Canadians relying on uninterrupted postal services, especially during the critical holiday season.