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Canada Post Offers New Framework Amid Ongoing Strike by Postal Workers

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OTTAWA – As a strike by 55,000 Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) members enters its third week, Canada Post has unveiled a new framework aimed at reviving stalled negotiations.

In a statement issued Sunday, the Crown corporation described the framework as “comprehensive,” aiming to address key issues while introducing greater flexibility to its delivery model. The goal, Canada Post said, is to “reignite discussions” with union representatives and work toward a final agreement with the help of mediators.

The union launched its strike on November 15, citing wages and working conditions as central grievances. However, efforts to reach a resolution hit an impasse last week, with a federally appointed special mediator temporarily stepping away. Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon said the mediator found the two sides too far apart to make progress, urging both parties to return to the table with a “greater sense of urgency.”

Financial Losses Add Pressure

Canada Post’s financial challenges have added urgency to the dispute. The corporation reported a $315-million loss before tax in the third quarter, surpassing its $290-million deficit in the same period last year. It is on track for a seventh consecutive year of losses in 2024.

Rising Tensions

The strike escalated further on Thursday when Canada Post began laying off some striking workers, a move it described as temporary. CUPW condemned the layoffs as an “intimidation tactic” and has filed an unfair labour practice complaint with the Canada Industrial Relations Board.

As Canadians face mounting disruptions to mail service, the Crown corporation reaffirmed its commitment to securing new collective agreements. “We remain focused on providing employees and customers with the certainty they are looking for,” the statement said.

For now, the prospect of a resolution hinges on whether the new framework can bridge the divide between Canada Post and the union, bringing an end to the prolonged standoff.

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