Canada Post secures a new contract with CPAA, giving 8,500 rural workers an 11% wage hike. Talks with the largest union, CUPW, remain unresolved.
Agreement Secured After Long Negotiations
Canada Post announced Thursday that it has reached a new collective agreement with the Canadian Postmasters and Assistants Association (CPAA), the second-largest union representing its workforce. The deal comes after 18 months of negotiations and affects approximately 8,500 employees, most of whom operate rural post offices across the country.
Wage Increases Confirmed
The agreement includes an 11% wage increase spread over three years, retroactive to January 1, 2024. Canada Post said the deal reflects its commitment to supporting rural postal workers while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
The CPAA had been seeking wage improvements and job security for members working in some of the most remote parts of Canada’s postal network.
Largest Union Still in Limbo
While the agreement with CPAA marks progress, negotiations with Canada Post’s largest union—the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW)—remain unresolved. The Crown corporation submitted its final offer to CUPW last month, following extended talks without a resolution.
Government Steps In
Earlier this month, Federal Labour Minister Patty Hajdu intervened, directing the Canada Industrial Relations Board to hold a vote on the final offer among CUPW members “as soon as possible.” A date for the vote has not yet been confirmed.
Recent Strike and Return-to-Work Order
CUPW members staged a 32-day strike last fall after collective bargaining talks collapsed. The strike concluded only after the federal government imposed back-to-work legislation, raising tensions between the union and Canada Post.
Next Steps for Canada Post
As Canada Post works to maintain nationwide service reliability, the outcome of the CUPW vote could significantly impact operations. With one major agreement secured and another still pending, the Crown corporation continues to navigate complex labour relations during a period of high public service demand and financial strain.
For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.
