Though Santa Claus might be set to load his sleigh by Christmas, Canada Post workers around the country could swap packages for picket signs this holiday season.
On Monday, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) voted overwhelmingly in favour of a strike. The union said in a statement the support for a strike mandate is part of a fight for "fair wages, safe working conditions, and the right to retire with dignity."
Canada Post on Wednesday presented a new contract offer to CUPW which includes annual wage increases of 11.5 per cent over a four-year period. The offer also includes defined-benefit pension protections, job security and health benefits safeguards.
If an agreement is not reached, Canada Post employees could walk off the job on Sunday.
A cooling-off period in contract negotiations is set to end on Saturday.
Bargaining between CUPW and Canada Post has been regularly ongoing for about a year, with negotiations beginning in November 2023.
Canada Post said it is determined to reach an agreement with CUPW during negotiations.
"A labour disruption would have significant consequences for the businesses we serve and the millions of Canadians who rely on Canada Post, while deepening the company's already serious financial situation," the postal service said in a statement.
On Monday, CUPW National President Jan Simpson said union members “recognize the challenges our employer is facing,” but will fight to ensure long-term sustainability and protections for workers.
“Our goal is not to simply make demands, but to work together toward solutions that support the long-term success of our public post office while addressing the real struggles our members face daily," Simpson said.
Beyond wage increases and protections, the union is seeking paid meal and rest periods for employees working five hours or more.
Among Canada Post workers, preliminary polling this week showed 95.8 per cent of urban employees and 95.5 per cent of rural workers voted in favour of a strike mandate, should a deal not be reached.
In August, Canada Post said its financial situation is “unsustainable,” especially in competition with e-commerce platforms and other delivery companies.
The Crown corporation in May said it suffered a $748-million loss ahead of taxes in 2023.
CUPW and Canada Post have not yet struck a deal.
