Canadian post workers are fighting for good jobs and better service
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) is currently in negotiations for a new collective agreement. The ongoing negotiations are crucial for the future of every CUPW member employed at Canada Post Corporation. Job security, wages, benefits, pensions, working conditions – all wil be determined by what happens in collective bargaining.
On September 11, 2018 all members of the CUPW, both the Urban Postal Operations unit and the Rural and Suburban Mail Carriers (RSMC) unit, voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action. In the past negotiations, Canada Post issued lock-out notices. There is no doubt this is because the government understands the CUPW members are ready to defend their rights and stand up for better jobs. The CUPW called the members for active support, to stay informed, to participate in union activities because “together we can move forward and make progress”.
On October 10, 2018, the CUPW announced, their members will deliver pension and social assistance cheques to ensure pensioners and those with low-income not to suffer if the union is locked out or forced to strike.
“Over the last decade, the working conditions of all our members has deteriorated, leaving many overburdened, with little time for their home life," says Mike Palecek, National President, CUPW. “This ends now. Our members have spoken – this is the time to address serious workplace problems. Postal workers are also bargaining for the future – future employees and everyone who relies on the postal service,” says Palecek. “Expanded public services at the post office will help our communities thrive, which is why we have put new services for all at the front and centre of our negotiations.”
There have already been some successes. On September 21, 2018, after years of struggle, Rural and Suburban Mail Carriers (RSMC) won their long battle for pay equity. The majority of RSMCs are women and earn 28% less than the male dominated urban carriers. CUPW established a process to permanently close the wage gap between the RSMCs and the letter carriers of the urban bargaining unit.
UNI Global Union supports CUPW members in ongoing negotiations for a fair agreement for all Canadian postal workers. The CUPW wants to improve working conditions and expanded postal services, benefitting everyone on Canada.
For more information: https://www.cupw.ca/en/collective-agreements/urban-and-rsmc-negotiations-2017-2018/program-demands-negotiations-2018-%E2%80%93-time