Over 55,000 Canada Post workers went on a nationwide strike on Nov. 15. The strike centres on issues affecting workers’ wages, contract terms, job security, benefits and working conditions. Union leaders and employers remain at odds as negotiations continue. The strike has disrupted several industries, drawing nationwide attention.

The impact of the strike continues to be felt as Canada Post has missed the delivery of an estimated 10 million parcels. The timing of the disruption, just ahead of Black Friday, has intensified the impact. Talks between Canada Post and the workers’ union remain unresolved as the strike continues.

Information on the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) website stated that it has been in negotiations with Canada Post for a year without significant progress. The union stated that the strike was a necessary step after exhausting other options. CUPW emphasized that workers’ demands focus on clear issues. The labour dispute highlights ongoing tensions over unresolved workplace concerns.

“Our demands are reasonable: fair wages, safe working conditions, the right to retire with dignity and the expansion of services at the public post office,” the union stated. The union also believes that a settlement can be reached but urged the corporation to address workers’ concerns and issues, as reported by the Star Phoenix.

Canada Post has confirmed that there have been prior talks with the CUPW, supported by a special mediator who has currently suspended his work, citing that the parties involved were too far apart.

The corporation proposed an 11.5 per cent wage increase over four years, added paid leave and retained the pension and job security provisions. The union countered with a demand for a 24 per cent wage hike and proposed full-time staff deliver weekend packages, while Canada Post suggested hiring additional part-time workers.

Canada Post has stated that there are temporary layoffs, with spokesperson Lisa Liu stating the move complies with the Canada Labour Code. Liu explained that employees were informed that the collective agreements no longer apply and their employment terms have changed under provisions related to lockout notices.

The CUPW has accused Canada Post of using layoffs as a “scare tactic” as the strike by over the 55,000 workers entered its second week. CUPW announced it is investigating the matter and criticized the Crown corporation’s actions.

The union representing Canada Post workers has filed a complaint with the Canada Industrial Relations Board over the layoffs of striking employees. The CUPW claims the layoffs violate the Canada Labour Code and act as an intimidation tactic.

According to CTV News, labour experts view the layoffs done by Canada Post as an unusual move. “Given that the workers aren’t being paid while they’re on strike, it’s unclear why they’re doing it,” said labour and employment lawyer, Deborah Hudson to CTV News. Hudson added that the Canada Labour Code prevents employers from laying off workers due to their involvement in a strike, and this might result in legal action.

According to CTV News, there have been calls by several organizations for the impasse to be resolved and one of such is from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has urged the federal government to act on the Canada Post strike, citing harm to the retail sector and disruptions in rural, northern and remote communities.

In a letter to Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon and Public Services Minister Jean-Yves Duclos, chambers of commerce from across the country described the nationwide strike as “yet another blow to our supply chains.” The letter highlighted challenges faced by entrepreneurs and small businesses in e-commerce and noted the greater impact on areas lacking alternatives to Canada Post.

Canada Post says the strike is affecting its revenue as customers switch to other delivery services due to concerns over holiday package delays. The Crown corporation also stated that retailers are moving shipments to other companies, seeking certainty during this peak season. Customers have also cancelled marketing campaigns to avoid delays in the postal network. The volume of mail and parcels continue to decline, and Canada Post warns that the strike threat will worsen its financial challenges.