Postal workers and Canada Post have resumed negotiations with the help of a mediator, as the expiry of their current collective agreements on May 22 draws near.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), which represents both urban and rural delivery workers, is pushing for new contracts that address wages, safety, job security, and retirement protections.
The renewed talks come after negotiations stalled in March and just months after a national strike ended under federal intervention. Hearings have since taken place through an Industrial Inquiry Commission, with a final report due to the federal labour minister by May 15.
Canada Post has said it remains committed to reaching an agreement that will modernize operations and improve service. However, the Crown corporation is also preparing for the possibility of a labour disruption if talks break down, and says it will keep customers informed.
While the union wants expanded services and stronger worker protections, it also claims Canada Post is considering cuts — including reduced delivery options and more franchised outlets.
With only weeks left before the current agreements expire, both sides are under pressure to reach a resolution that avoids another disruption in service.
Two days of talks took place this week, and while it’s unknown how they went, both parties had agreed to continue negotiations if this week’s talks were productive.
