The time has come for Canada Post to return to the bargaining table and begin serious negotiations. With these votes behind us, Canada Post must now realize that negotiating ratifiable collective agreements that meet the needs of postal workers is the only way to move forward. Canada Post needs to return to the bargaining table and get serious about negotiating. With these votes behind us, Canada Post must now realize that negotiating ratifiable collective agreements that meet the needs of postal workers is the only way to move forward. The offer included wage increases of approximately 13% over the course of four years in addition to the addition of part-time employees that Canada Post stated are necessary to maintain the postal service’s viability. The union has long opposed the use of contracted or part-time workers, arguing that the struggling business could save money elsewhere. The company stated on Friday that “this result does not lessen the urgent need to modernize and protect this vital national service.” “However, it does mean that the uncertainty that has been having a significant impact on our business and the many Canadians and businesses that rely on Canada Post will continue,” the statement reads. The Canada Industrial Relations Board administered the vote, which began on July 21 and ended on Friday evening. The board stepped in after federal Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu ordered the vote after intervening in the labor dispute at Canada Post’s request. If workers reject the offer, the union has stated that it will immediately contact management to invite them back to the bargaining table. However, it has stated that the government may intervene with back-to-work legislation or a binding arbitration order in the event of additional strikes or lockouts. Simpson stated, “The government will keep out if it truly respects unions and collective bargaining.” Back-to-work orders are no more. No more rigged elections. In the midst of stalled negotiations, a nationwide ban on CUPW members working overtime began in May and is still in effect.
Canada Post workers reject ‘final’ contract offers after vote
