Unionized Canada Post workers start voting on new contract offer as union urges rejection. Decision could impact mail service and business across Canada.
Canada Post Employees Cast Ballots on Contract Offer
Over 55,000 unionized workers at Canada Post have begun voting on a new contract proposal from the Crown corporation, amid ongoing tensions and warnings from their union to reject the deal.
Voting Begins Following Ministerial Intervention
The vote, which started Monday and runs until August 1, follows a directive from federal Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu. She asked the Canada Industrial Relations Board to step in after prolonged negotiations failed to yield an agreement between Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW). The intervention prompted a formal vote on the corporation’s final offer.
Key Contract Terms at the Centre of Debate
The offer includes a 13% wage increase spread over four years and proposes expanding the use of part-time workers—an issue that remains a sticking point for the union. Canada Post insists the changes are essential to remain financially viable.
“We hope our employees see these offers provide certainty for the road ahead and vote yes to make them their new collective agreements,” said spokesperson Jon Hamilton. He added that Canada Post experienced operating losses of approximately \$10 million daily throughout June.
Union Pushes Back, Cites Bargaining Integrity
CUPW president Jan Simpson strongly urged members to vote “no,” citing concerns about job security and the long-term impact on working conditions. “A strong rejection protects the integrity of the bargaining process,” she stated. The union has been in negotiations with the Crown corporation for more than 18 months.
Potential Impact on Businesses and Consumers
If the offer is rejected and no deal is reached, a renewed strike threat looms—a situation that could have major economic consequences. A survey by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) revealed that 63% of businesses would consider abandoning Canada Post if disruptions persist. The 2024 postal strike already pushed 13% of small firms to shift away permanently.
According to CFIB, the 2024 strike caused daily losses between \$75 million and \$100 million for small businesses. In response, 70% of firms have moved toward digital solutions, while others rely on private couriers or delay mailings.
Uncertainty Remains Until Vote Concludes
The outcome of the vote will determine whether Canada Post secures new collective agreements until January 2028—or if both parties return to the negotiating table. As of now, the future of postal services across Canada remains uncertain.
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