Labour Minister Announces Measures to Resolve Canada Post Strike
Canada Post Strike Could End Next Week as Labour Minister Intervenes
The Canada Post strike, which has disrupted mail and package deliveries nationwide for the past four weeks, could be resolved as early as next week.
Canada’s Labour Minister has requested the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) to review the state of negotiations between Canada Post and the postal workers’ union. If the board determines the talks are unproductive, it could order the striking workers to return to their jobs.
Minister MacKinnon expressed his belief that the negotiations have stalled. Ultimately, it will be up to the CIRB to decide whether to intervene and end the strike. Should workers return to their roles, they will continue under the current collective agreement, which remains in effect until May 22, 2025.
While both parties still have a window to reach an independent agreement, time is running out.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) has strongly criticized the government’s move, calling it an “assault” on its bargaining rights.
‘Calling a Time Out’
In addition to seeking a resolution, MacKinnon has ordered an inquiry into the breakdown of negotiations. The inquiry aims to provide recommendations for improving future bargaining between the union and Canada Post.
“We’re calling a time out,” said MacKinnon, noting that the strike has disproportionately impacted Indigenous communities, remote areas, small businesses, and charities, particularly during the critical holiday season.
“My bosses are Canadians, and Canadians are suffering unduly in this dispute,” he added.
What’s Holding Up the Agreement?
Key sticking points in the negotiations include wages, job security, and minimum hours. CUPW recently reduced its demand for wage increases from 24% over four years to 19%, while also seeking medical leave, improved disability payments, and enhanced rights for temporary workers.
Canada Post, however, has argued that the union’s demands are unaffordable, citing six consecutive years of financial losses. The company estimates that meeting CUPW’s proposals would cost over $3 billion over four years.
As of now, Canada Post has not issued a public response to MacKinnon’s announcement.
