Canadian postal union talks pick up pace under strike threat

Negotiations between Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers have “picked up the pace” with the possibility of strike action drawing near. Following last month’s vote by the union’s membership to support strike action, work stoppages could be undertaken from May 25.

Talks between the two sides regarding a collective bargaining agreement for the union’s urban unit have been ongoing for several months now, with the union demanding above-inflation pay increases to reflect the continuing profitability of Canada Post, while the postal operator seeks ways to cut costs to respond to continuing declining mail volumes.

Last week, the conciliation process between the two sides turned into a mediation phase, with conciliator Jacques Lessard becoming the mediator in a move that allows him a more active role in making suggestions to bring the two sides together.

On Wednesday, the union said there had been “some movement” on several issues at stake, though “no major breakthroughs”.

Updating his members on the situation, union president and chief negotiator Denis Lemelin said last month’s “strong strike vote” had got the attention of Canada Post management.

He said Canada Post was still seeking to replace the current sick leave benefit system with its short-term disability plan proposal, and also demand a “drastic” reduction in wages and benefits.

With some changes to pension proposals now being discussed, the two sides are also looking at a new “comprehensive” approach for temporary workers to be given formal positions when working 1,000 or more hours during a year, or when part-time workers work more than 30 hours per week over a 30-week period.