Canada Post ‘extremely disappointed’ following union’s latest proposals

The union representing more than 55,000 striking workers has submitted its latest proposals to Canada Post, but a first glance has the corporation saying it is “extremely disappointed.”

“Canada Post has received the latest offers from the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) and is extremely disappointed that their intent appears to be to widen the gap in negotiations, rather than close it,” stated the Crown corporation.

“We are conducting a full review of the offers for the Urban and RSMC (Rural and Suburban Mail Carriers) bargaining units and will share more information as soon as possible. However, we don’t want to provide false hope to impacted employees, small businesses, charities and northern communities that were hoping for a speedy resolution.”

The corporation then said that it has tried to close the gap and reach negotiated agreements, but the union has “reverted to their previous positions or increased their demands.”

CUPW released a statement today after meeting with Canada Post to present its revised proposals in response to the corporation's latest proposals.

“Our latest proposals include member demands – forwarded from our locals across the country and voted on by each bargaining unit – that address the issues postal workers need resolved so that we can all get back to work,” stated CUPW.

“None of us want to be on the picket line, but we cannot continue with management steamrolling workers with random ideas they have to change work rules and impact our safety. We call on Canada Post to seriously consider our proposals and recognize that they reflect the value of its workforce.”

The union’s latest proposals can be found online at this link.

“Canada Post is at a critical juncture in its history,” said the corporation.

“With financial pressures mounting and now accelerating with CUPW’s ongoing strike, our long-standing role as a vital, publicly owned national infrastructure for Canadians and Canadian businesses is under significant threat.”

The crown corporation then added that it is on pace to record a seventh consecutive annual loss and that since 2018, Canada Post has lost more than $3 billion.

As the strike continues to drag deeper into the holiday season, the impact of the work action on charities and organizations has become more apparent.

"Not everyone is online," said Jen Lyle, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of BC.

"Seniors and people living in rural areas often face barriers with internet connectivity, making mail an indispensable resource. Without it, they are left in the dark about available services and support."

The Alzheimer Society of BC is asking for people to support and help seniors, especially those in remote areas, during the strike.