Canada Post workers have commenced a nationwide strike after failing to secure a new contract with their employer. The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), representing approximately 55,000 urban and rural mail carriers, announced the strike early Friday, citing little progress in bargaining efforts. “Canada Post had the opportunity to prevent this strike, but it refused to negotiate real solutions to the issues postal workers face every day,” CUPW stated. The union criticized the Crown corporation for threatening changes to working conditions and exposing workers to potential layoffs.
The timing of the strike coincides with the onset of Black Friday and the holiday season, raising concerns about disruptions to parcel and mail deliveries across the country. Canada Post confirmed the shutdown of operations, noting that mail and parcels will not be processed or delivered during the strike, with some post offices also closing. Items already in the postal network may face delays, and no new shipments will be accepted during the work stoppage.
Despite the disruption, both parties remain at the negotiating table. Canada Post spokesperson Jon Hamilton confirmed ongoing talks as of midday Friday. Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon also expressed a commitment to supporting negotiations, emphasizing that the government has no plans to introduce back-to-work legislation at this time. “The climate seems to be that Canada Post and other employers are waiting for the government to legislate us back to work,” said CUPW President Lubinski, referencing past government interventions during strikes in 2011 and 2018.
The union had entered a legal strike position on November 3, following a mandatory cooling-off period. Workers issued a 72-hour strike notice earlier this week, and more than 95% of members had voted in favor of a strike mandate last month. Canada Post’s latest offer included annual wage increases totaling 11.5% over four years, job security protections, and health benefits. However, CUPW deemed the proposal insufficient, citing unresolved issues around wages, working conditions, and expanded services.
While service guarantees are suspended during the strike, both parties have agreed to continue mailing essential benefit cheques, including the Canada Child Benefit, Old Age Security, and Canada Pension Plan payments. Canada Post warned that the strike could have long-term effects on its financial health and service delivery. Once operations resume, mail and parcels will be processed on a first-come, first-serve basis, but delays are expected to persist.
Negotiations began on November 15, with federal mediators and a special mediator appointed to assist. “Every day is a new day in collective bargaining,” said MacKinnon, emphasizing the government’s focus on achieving a negotiated agreement.
