CUPW negotiations: Canada Post continues to negotiate with CUPW as union announces strike mandate

October 25, 2024, 12:00 pm 8 comments

Today, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) announced it has received a strike mandate from its members. With the cooling-off period coming to an end on November 2, Canada Post and CUPW must approach the negotiations with greater urgency to avoid a labour disruption.

The parties officially began negotiations on November 15, 2023 and have met consistently since then.

Labour disruption would have significant consequences

It is critical that both parties focus their energies on resolving outstanding issues to reach negotiated agreements. A labour disruption would have significant consequences for the millions of Canadians who rely on Canada Post while deepening the company’s already serious financial situation, as customers move their holiday shipments to other carriers.

On September 25, Canada Post presented proposals to protect and enhance what’s important to employees, within the Corporation’s financial constraints, while making the changes that are necessary to better serve Canadians in today’s demanding parcel delivery market.

Commitment to finding common ground

CUPW presented counter-offers to Canada Post on October 7, and the two sides continue to negotiate.

Canada Post’s goal throughout these negotiations with CUPW has always been to reach negotiated agreements, without any labour disruption. The company remains committed to proceeding with urgency and finding the common ground necessary to reach agreements.

Key dates in the negotiations process

• August 13: The parties moved into a 60-day conciliation period with the assistance of neutral conciliators.
• October 12: The conciliation period expired without extension, and the parties moved into a 21-day cooling-off period, with negotiations continuing.
• October 15: The federal government appointed mediators to assist the parties in negotiations.
• November 2: The cooling off period will end. Only after this date would either party be in a position to initiate a labour disruption (following a minimum notice of 72 hours). This timeline means no labour disruption can occur before November 3.

More information

Watch for further updates on the Negotiations Hub or in mailings to your home. On the Negotiations Hub you can also sign up for email updates, directly to your inbox.

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