Postal Workers Strike Sends Strong Message, Say Union Leaders
The shift from daily job actions to rotating strikes has not weakened the message from postal workers in the Peace region, according to Babe Seguin, president of Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) local chapter 738.
Since September, postal workers have engaged in daily strikes to raise awareness about the potential closure of rural post offices. Recently, they began rotating strikes affecting several locations.
Post Offices at Risk of Closure
- Altona
- Buick
- Cecil Lake
- Charlie Lake
- Clayhurst
- Montney
- Prespatou
- Rose Prairie
- Tumbler Ridge
- Retail offices in Dawson Creek and Fort St. John
These offices were previously protected by a moratorium, which is now at risk of being lifted due to proposed mail service cutbacks.
Canada Post's Response and Government Direction
The media department of Canada Post stated that federal Minister Lightbound has given the service 45 days to develop a plan to implement measures introduced by the government in early September.
"The plan is being finalized and will be shared as directed with the government in advance of the deadline."
The measures focus on prioritizing service, minimizing public impact, respecting employees, keeping the public informed, and adapting to the changing needs of Canadians using the postal service.
The union’s ongoing actions underline the strong opposition to rural post office closures and the demand for a responsive and considerate approach from Canada Post and the government.
Summary: Peace region postal workers maintain pressure through rotating strikes to protest potential rural post office closures while Canada Post finalizes a government-mandated service plan.