Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal government clearly sees the restructuring of Canada Post as a test case for wider attacks on workers.
Daniel Berkley, a postal worker and leader in the Postal Workers Rank-and-File Committee (PWRFC), emphasizes the stakes involved. To reach the PWRFC, email [email protected] or use the contact form provided at the article’s end.
Recent media reports suggest the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) is nearing an agreement with Canada Post that could lead to major cuts in jobs and deterioration of working conditions.
Bargaining resumed on Monday, November 3. CUPW issued a statement appreciating the support from a government-appointed mediator and expressing the union leadership’s willingness to “overcome the disagreements between the parties” and “secure ratifiable collective agreements at the bargaining table.”
Meanwhile, CUPW has formally requested that the pro-business Liberal government, which supports plans to reduce the Canada Post workforce by two-thirds—from 55,000 employees—ensure that union input is considered in any decisions.
"To ensure that any decisions… are made… with Union input."
This looming agreement highlights concerns over a possible sellout deal risking severe impacts on postal workers' employment and conditions.
Author’s Note: The potential deal between CUPW and Canada Post signals critical challenges ahead for the future of postal workers' rights and job security.