The Canadian Union of Postal Workers says Canada Post’s latest contract proposals amount to a major step backward, accusing the Crown corporation of “making a mockery of the collective bargaining process” as a weeks-long strike drags on with no resolution in sight.
CUPW national president Jan Simpson said Friday the company’s new global offers — tabled after 45 days of waiting — are worse than those rejected in August and fail to meet the government’s call for ratifiable agreements.
Simpson said the proposals include rollbacks such as eliminating job security provisions, extending workforce adjustment zones to 60 kilometres, and cutting positions outright. “Postal workers want stability for our families and the public who depend on us, not insulting offers that force us to pay for the financial crisis Canada Post created,” she said.
Canada Post said its offers maintain core protections for employees while helping modernize the postal service. The proposals include compounded wage increases of 13.59 per cent over four years, protection of defined benefit pensions and health benefits, up to seven weeks of vacation, and cost-of-living adjustments.
The corporation said the framework aligns with government directives to transform the postal system by expanding community mailboxes, introducing more flexible delivery standards and refocusing resources on rural and remote service. It also proposed voluntary departure incentives of up to 78 weeks’ pay, with layoffs considered a last resort.
Canada Post said its worsening financial situation, compounded by two national strikes and lost market share, means it can no longer offer a signing bonus. It insists the proposals strike a balance between financial sustainability and fairness for employees.
CUPW said its bargaining teams will review the 500 pages of new offers but maintains that Canada Post “is not listening” and continues to undermine good faith negotiations.
The federal government has urged both sides to reach agreements that can be ratified and restore stability to the postal system.
(Richard Evans)