Capilano Delivery Centre recently received support from these retirees with the following letter:

Antonio Chiavattari                                          Frances Crossley                                                  Lois Perry

Barbara Gove                                                        Frank Bonvie                                                          Naomi Allen

David Flavelle                                                       James Wilson                                                        Rene Parrison

BJ Perry                                                                   Janine Timmons                                                   Richard Hanes

Bruce McRay                                                       Karmel Maxwell                                                     Rob Sawyer

Darrell Ainscough                                           Kathy Vishnikov                                                    Susan Giardin

Anyone wanting to run a similar volunteer project, please contact [email protected]

We, the following retired CUPW postal workers, support all current CUPW postal workers in their struggle to maintain their livelihoods, working conditions, and benefits. We have been there. We have spent our career in service to Canadians. We understand the hard work, and we understand how valued we are by our customers. Those of us who worked inside mail processing facilities dedicated our careers to ensuring important items were directed, with care, to their destinations. Those of us who worked in transportation made sure that those goods flowed around the country. Those of us who worked as mechanics and in tech services made sure an incredible amount of machinery and vehicles kept moving. Whether in the urban or rural operations, those of us who were letter carriers and mail service couriers saw our customers at their homes, businesses, and organizations every day, forming a bond with Canadians at their doorsteps from coast to coast to coast. We know the role that postal workers play in this country. We are used to stepping up in times of need. So many workers carried the country through the pandemic. So many of us know the feeling of continuing to serve with pride through difficult times. We have always had the ability to work together and provide vital, secure support to Canadians.

A strong public post office matter. Private enterprise is profit motivated. As it is, we have seen fair working conditions trampled by the corporation in the pursuit of profit. Over the decades, postal workers have fought long and hard to obtain and improve working conditions and wages. Many of us have suffered common and sometimes life altering injuries that could have been prevented with tenable working conditions. New work systems and staffing practices are causing a health and safety crisis, as well as diminishing the standard of service for Canadians. A post office motivated purely by profit above all else is unacceptable for Canadians and unsustainable for workers.

We are concerned that new CUPW workers could be excluded from a reliable pension system. Any kind of non-secure pension income plan is precarious. Implementation of a defined contribution (not defined benefit) pension plan, for new hires, would not only give those workers less security at retirement, but could weaken the pension security of already retired workers.

While we have concerns about steps backward in working conditions, benefits, and wages, we do see great possibilities in steps forward into expansion of services. We know the value of the network and structure that exists. Why waste it? Financial services, elder check-ins and other diverse services have been implemented in other countries and are not only possible but also highly profitable and successful. Those countries have adopted new ways for the post office to grow. As retirees, we have dedicated our lives to the post office, and we know from our combined experience that cuts are not the answer, and will only make existing problems worse.

We retirees post our names as a message of support to current Canada Post workers, and also as a message to you, our members of parliament, that Canada Post is a cherished Canadian institution. We want service expanded and improved. We want to see Canada Post succeed, and we do not want future successes to come at the expense of front-line postal workers.

Solidarity from retirees                                                                                                                                                                         

Each and every week at least 5 CUPW members in the Vancouver Local have injuries that require either medical assistance or WCB coverage. About 50% of these injuries are disabling. So, in any given year, over 260 people on our local get hurt just from doing their jobs.

This number is high but, the reality is the rate of injuries is much higher as these numbers do not include psychological injuries from bullying, workplace stress, staff shortages, harassment etc.

Postal workers have a right to be able to go to work and without having to worry about themselves or their coworkers getting hurt.

Some of these injuries are true accidents, for example letter carriers tripping and falling on uneven sidewalks, but far too many of these injuries are preventable.

Canada Post tells us that we need to be more careful when we work, and that statement is correct. It doesn’t mean we should ignore the hard reality that many of our injuries are caused by our workplace processes and practices.

 When Canada Post pressures us to get more work done because they aren’t staffing correctly, that often leads to accidents and injuries. When Canada Post does not have the proper equipment in place to help us do our work, that can also cause injuries. When Canada Post forces new methods onto letter carriers who process and deliver the mail, such as SSD, we can bet that the number of injuries is going to increase yet again.

CUPW Vancouver reps have met with Canada Post management on many occasions to raise concerns, complaints, and to push for a psychologically safe workplace. Sometimes, we have made gains for our workers. Some of these improvements are long lasting. Far too many are, unfortunately, short lived.

No one goes to work to be injured. We go to work so we can support ourselves, our families, and pursue things that bring us joy. This is why it is so important that on April 28^th we remind Canada Post that they need to take real and concrete steps to protect our health and safety.  We need to tell Canada Post we want actions and not just words.

Monday April 28 is the National Day of Mourning. It commemorates workers who have been killed, injured, or suffered illnesses due to workplace-related hazards, and occupational exposures to poisonous or toxic substances. This day was established by the Canadian Labour Congress 41 years ago and is now observed by workers in 100 other countries.

Our health and safety have been an issue in this round of bargaining and it was an issue that CUPW raised in front of William Kaplan, the Industrial Inquiry Commissioner. His report is due on or around May 15^th.

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers has an important message to Canada Post: Today, and every day – Workers are important – Protect us!!!!

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

Congratulations to  brother  Edward Wan  for winning the elections for  the position of    Education Director.

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar

Zoom Video/Phone Conference’

You must register in advance for this meeting. Registration Deadline: Wednesday, April 9^th at 6:30 pm.

Link to register 

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/blxlfGyPTOO8d5Y_oLpagg

*Due to the information needed to be sent to participants, and the time required to authenticate registrations, all participants must register by the deadline above. *

Admission to the meeting will close fifteen (15) minutes from the start of the meeting.

AGENDA:

To pass the budget for the national campaign “Hands Off My Post Office” during federal elections.

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President 

** Sign Language interpreters are confirmed**

lb/CUPE-3338

             ***** Education Director: *****
                            Adrian Chow
                           Edward Wan

Schedule for the elections is already posted.

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President             lb/CUPE-3338

THE ORGANIZATION DIRECTOR AND TYLER

1. A) Shall be an elected officer and voting member of the Executive Committee.
2. B) Shall maintain the membership attendance book for Executive Committee, General Membership and Special Meetings.
3. C) Shall maintain a monthly listing of members eligible to run for office in the Local, as set out in Article 9.
4. D) Shall check membership credentials at all General Membership and Special Meetings.
5. E) Shall maintain order at meetings as requested from the Chair.
6. F) Shall audit attendance at meetings to see that a quorum is maintained.
7. G) Shall chair the Organization Committee.
8. H) Shall assist the Local Secretary-Treasurer as required. 9.7 BY-ELECTIONS:

A FULL-TIME PAID OFFICERS, TABLE OFFICERS AND CHIEF STEWARDS

1. If a vacancy occurs a notice shall be posted immediately.
2. Nominations and acceptances in writing shall be received up to and including the day of election.
3. The notice of vacancy and call for nominations must be posted for a minimum of 20 days before an election can be held.
4. An election to cover the interim period of time until the next Annual Election shall take place at the next General Membership Meeting subject to 9.7 A (3) and shall be voted on by all members in attendance at the meeting.
5. An election to cover the remainder of the term of office shall take place as part of the next Annual Elections, if applicable.

** Note: You must be a member in good standing to vote.**

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President                                                 lb/CUPE-3338

lb/CUPE-3338

Anju Parmar has been  re- elected as President.

Raylene Marshall has been re- elected as 2nd Vice President.

Runoff Election dates for the Education Director will be announced soon by the balloting committee.

Shop Steward election Results will be announced  at the end of the week.

In Solidarity,

Joseph Henderson McCance, 1st Vice President

The Pink Shirt campaign, was designed to promote kindness, compassion, and a commitment to creating workplaces and communities free from bullying. It serves as a reminder that everyone deserves to feel safe, supported, and heard.

In light of recent concerns raised by our Shift 3 members about some of the behaviors being exhibited by certain team leaders, March 27, 2025 the pink shirt holds more significance. By wearing a pink shirt, we are collectively standing up and sending a clear message: Bullying and harassment have no place in our workplace.

We ask that you join us in wearing pink on March 27th to show your support for a bullying-free environment where respect and kindness reign. It’s a simple, yet powerful way for us to come together and remind the employer that our workplace should always be one where everyone feels valued and heard.

Thank you for your ongoing support – let’s make this day count and keep working together for a better workplace for all.

Let’s all come together and wear Pink shirt to start with small gestures of kindness.

“Let the Kindness Grow”

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

on behalf of Helen De Guzman, Executive Steward Shift 3

lb/CUPE-3338

8am to 8pm

Vancouver is situated on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), Stó:lō, and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.

WHY YOU SHOULD VOTE IN THE BY-ELECTION

The City of Vancouver is having a by-election to fill 2 city councillor positions which have become vacant. City councillors make decisions that affect reconciliation, affordability, housing, transit, and climate action.

Local governments were great allies of CUPW in the campaign to halt Canada Post’s conversion of door-to-door delivery to community mailboxes. We need to help community minded, labour friendly folks get elected!

Typically, local elections have lower turnout than federal or provincial elections. Turnout is affected by age, income, and education. People who are more likely to vote are older, have a higher income, and have a higher level of education.

Local governments need to be chosen by the whole, diverse community. Use your vote to help make this happen!

GETTING OUT THE CUPW VOTE

Elections BC has strict rules around election campaigning and financing. Unions are not permitted to advertise about election issues or make contributions to candidates, however unions can engage in member to member communication.

CUPW Vancouver elects delegates to the Vancouver and District Labour Council (VDLC), which is made up of representatives from affiliated unions in Vancouver, Richmond, Burnaby, and the North Shore. For the by-election, the VDLC’s Political Action Committee interviewed candidates and selected those who will govern to support workers and their families.

“The VDLC is proud and excited to endorse both Lucy Maloney (One City), and Annette Reilly (Green Party of Vancouver),” said [VDLC] President Stephen von Sychowski. “Both Lucy and Annette are leaders in the community who know how to get things done. They are committed to working cooperatively to hold the ABC majority accountable, and to be voices for the working people of this city.”

CUPW encourages its members to vote for these candidates.

HOW TO VOTE IN THE VANCOUVER BY-ELECTION

To vote in this by-election, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old on election day, April 5, 2025
• Be a Canadian citizen
• Have lived in BC for at least six months immediately before registration day Live in Vancouver, no minimum days required.
• Vote in advance on March 26 and April 1 at City Hall, 453 West 12th Avenue.
• Vote on election day on April 5 from 8am to 8pm. Go to the City of Vancouver website to find the location  nearest to youDO I GET TIME OFF TO VOTE IN BC LOCAL ELECTIONS?From Elections BC:“Voters are entitled to four consecutive hours free from work to vote during advance voting or on General Voting Day. Voting hours during advance voting are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time and on General Voting Day are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Pacific time.“This does not necessarily mean four hours off work. It means that there must be a four-hour period free from work during voting hours. Time off may be at the beginning or end of an employee’s shift, or [time off may be] unnecessary if normal working hours already provide enough time free from work to vote. For example, if a shift ends at 4 p.m., or does not begin until noon, the employee is not entitled to any time off for voting purposes. Employers can decide when their employees can take time off to vote.“It is an offence if an employer deducts your pay or penalizes you for taking time off to vote. You are entitled to your regular compensation for any hours not worked during this time.”In Solidarity,

  

Anju Parmar, President

On behalf of Lisa Quattrocchi

March 22^nd, Saturday at 10am

 Maritimes Labour Centre

 1880 Triumph street

 Vancouver

Agenda for the March GMM:

1. Land Acknowledgment
2. Reading of Truth and Reconciliation: Calls to Action
3. Reading of Harassment Policy
4. Reading of new members
5. Reading of the previous meeting’s minutes
6. Business arising out of the minutes
7. New Business
8. Nominations and elections:
   1. By Election: Organizing Director
   2. Balloting Committee (8)
   3. Health & Safety Committee (9)
   4. Education Committee ((8)
   5. Organizing Committee (8)
   6. Publications Committee (8)
9. Executive Committee Motions
10. Unfinished business
11. Correspondence
12. Executive and Committee Report
13. Good and Welfare
14. Adjournment

***ASL Interpreters have been confirmed for this meeting***

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President                                  lb/CUPE-3338

Motion: Presented by the member

AS from the start of my/her union activism knows that the Local 846 office has 5 full time officers that served the local such as President, 1st Vice President, Second Vice President, grievance officer and Secretary/Treasurer.

As Secretary/Treasurer has been a big part of the office as it has a big responsibility and a big role in an office.

As in my observation during those years’ previous full-time secretary/treasurer (Andy whom I adore) was able to help me with a lot of question with regards to member’s issues from pay issues to even consulting with PO4 issues if no officer was not available.

As I have observed that the Secretary/Treasurer has a big role that needed time to figure things out with no time pressure.

As the secretary/treasurer needs more time to be able to avoid mistakes as numbers and calculations are very sensitive and not become so problematic and be more organized as time is provided to do all that.

As why because the local decided to add another position which is 3rd vice President? Then decided to drop the secretary/treasurer’s hours of work just because of the “BUDGET”.

As 3rd Vice President can be part-time as this position needed to be on the work floor to feel the need of the membership.

As why because of the additional position, 3rd vice President and secretary Treasurer are now both became part-time position because of financial concern?

As why for how many years Secretary/Treasurer has never became a part-time position and because adding another position will affect the needed hours that a secretary/treasurer could do to ease the load of the responsibility.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That because of the time pressure that can put a toll on someone’s wellbeing, secretary/treasurer position be back to full time position as there is so much responsibility involved.

IF IN DOUBT PLEASE READ THE VANCOUVER BY LAW UNDER SECRETARY TREASURER’S ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITY OR LET THE CURRENT SECRETARY/TREASURER SPEAK FOR HIS ROLE.

Location: Harrison Hot Springs

Deadline to Apply: 12:00 p.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025

• Lost Wages: Locals are responsible for covering the lost wages of
• Application Submission: All applications must be signed and submitted by the Local President or their designate.
• Where to Submit:
  • By mail: CUPW Vancouver local #109- 4238 Lozells Ave, Burnaby BC
  • By fax: (604) 685-4931
• Deadline: The deadline for registration is 12:00 p.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025.
• Late Applications: Applications received after the deadline will not be considered, so please ensure they are submitted on time.

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

Sisters, brothers, cousins, and others!

We just had a consultation to discuss electronic bidding, and it is here fast! March 10^th is their implementation date. This will be for all Group 1 & Group 2 workers. We were assured (on the record) by PC&R that all sups have been trained in how to do the bidding on their computer systems, and on our PDTs. They will be willing & available to help show a member how to do the bid themselves. If a member is not comfortable using those technologies, the sup will be able to submit the bid for them, with the worker’s assistance. If for some reason a sup is unavailable to help a member bid, they have asked that the member please contact a steward, and then have that steward contact PC&R to report the sup & the time, so that they can follow up with that sup & explain that they need to help workers when requested.

Members won’t have access to route information online, so at this point we still have to look at books to learn about the schedules. At this point, this is only for monthly/ownership bids. The LTAs will be done the regular way, by submitting paper bids using the regular process. To make the process slightly less confusing, members will only have access to the bids for their group. This means that P04s won’t see letter carrier walks or MSC schedules, and vice versa. Transfers will still be done using the normal means, so that shouldn’t be impacted either.

I imagine that a lot of us are nervous of how this will roll out, as this is a significant change! I do feel that it’s a good step for us in the long run. In the future, having members be able to look at route information online and submit their bids from their home, will make things a lot easier for people. Remember that if anyone could use some help, they can call the office any time. 604 685 6581.

I hope everyone has a great day!

In solidarity,

Joseph Henderson McCance

^1st Vice President CUPW Vancouver Local 846

Sukhwinder Tony Phunal

Balloting  Committee  Chair

At Canada Post, many CUPW members are at risk of developing Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs). These injuries cause pain and discomfort in various parts of the body, including muscles, tendons, joints, and nerves in areas like the neck, shoulders, arms, hands, and back.

The nature of our jobs at Canada Post involves frequent, repetitive movements, which are a key factor in the development of RSIs. Actions such as pushing, pulling, gripping, lifting, twisting, and reaching, along with awkward postures or remaining in fixed positions, significantly increase the risk.

*Source: Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS)

Recognizing the Symptoms:

• Persistent pain
• Joint stiffness
• Muscle tightness
• Redness and swelling in affected areas
• Numbness or “pins and needles” sensations
• Discoloration of skin or reduced sweating in the hands

Steps to Take if You Experience Symptoms:

• Report it immediately: Log the incident in the first aid book.
• Consult a doctor: Early intervention is key.
• File a claim with WorkSafeBC to ensure proper documentation and follow-up.

How to Prevent Repetitive Strain Injuries:

• Ensure sufficient staffing levels to prevent overloading employees and maintain a safe, manageable workload.
• Rotate tasks regularly to promote varied movements throughout the day. Avoid using “operational requirements” as a reason to place workers in situations that increase injury risks.
• Follow the Local Joint Health and Safety Committee (LJHSC) guidelines for safer work practices.
• Take frequent breaks when symptoms arise and consult a first aid attendant.
• Adjust workstations to reduce awkward postures and minimize overreaching or twisting.

Important Reminder: If you experience any discomfort—such as pulls, strains, or pains—immediately seek help from a first aid attendant. Prompt action and proper documentation are crucial for early treatment and prevention.

In Solidarity,

Raylene Marshall

2^nd Vice President, Vancouver Local 846

Greetings sisters, brothers, cousins, and others! Lisa Q, one of our letter carrier executive stewards, noticed that the establishment from her depot showed some coworkers on assignments that weren’t what they were actually doing. After our talk, on Monday January 13 2025, I did a complete audit of the establishment lists for the letter carrier depots in our local. For anyone that isn’t familiar with them, they’re a detailed report of who is doing what route, where our relief are working, etc. I was VERY surprised to learn that there were 105 OR & 24 VR positions that were not being covered that week! Now when depots are failing to get overtime delivered and handing all the mail back to the routes that it came from, I think we may have found the reason why!

I immediately contacted our zone managers with the details of what was wrong in each of their areas, and requested a consultation with PC&R because we need to have a formal discussion on the record. On Wednesday January 22^nd, we had our meeting. To my surprise, PC&R said that they were not aware of this deficit & they were very concerned. They completely agreed that being short 129 relief positions is not acceptable, and they had already started a hiring campaign for the Vancouver local after reading my initial notice! They acknowledged that this was obviously the reason for the 17.04 overtime issues that our local is having, especially in our SSD depots where it’s much more difficult for a carrier to know when their mail is being handed back to them from a previous day.

Unfortunately, the relief coverage is still nowhere near good enough. As of the coming week of Feb 23, the uncovered routes are 98 OR & 21 VR. 119 uncovered relief is better than 129, but this is still terrible. As a reminder, please make sure you’re filing a grievance every time the corporation tells you that they weren’t able to cover any part of your route when you needed help. Staffing is their responsibility, and it’s their own decisions that caused this problem on our work floors.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Joseph Henderson McCance

^1st Vice President CUPW Vancouver Local 846

I just received a call from a letter carrier asking me about online bidding, and I didn’t have any idea what they were talking about. They proceeded to tell me that there’s a notice in their info book telling them that in the near future, everyone will be bidding for routes online, instead of on paper in their depots. Not only has there been no discussion about training members to ensure they’re able to do this, but, there was not even a mention to the Vancouver local office that the corporation was considering this change. This is absolutely unacceptable! Not only does this violate Article 8 of the Collective Agreement, but this puts us in a position of not being able to offer any assistance to our members because we are completely unaware of this change!

I’ve already reached out to set up a consultation as soon as possible, and we’ll keep you informed as we learn of their proposed changes.

In Solidarity,

Joseph Henderson McCance

1st   Vice President 

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/pQBu50Q6Q1ylpxQlvvR3tQ

 After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information   about joining the meeting.

Registration will close on Friday March 7^th at 10am

The Vancouver Local is having a Human Rights Committee Meeting

Agenda for the meeting

• Defending your rights in the workplace as an Equity seeking member.
• Report from the National Human Rights Committee members.

If you have any other  specific agenda items to discuss at the committee meeting, please send it via     email at [email protected] .

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

On behalf of Local Human Rights Committee

Sign language interpreter has been confirmed.

February 27^th, Thursday at 7pm

Maritimes Labour Centre

1880 Triumph Street

Vancouver

Agenda for the February GMM:

1. Land Acknowledgment
2. Reading of Truth and Reconciliation: Calls to Action
3. Reading of Harassment Policy
4. Reading of new members
5. Reading of the previous meeting’s minutes
6. Business arising out of the minutes
7. New Business (Lifetime Membership Motion)
8. Nominations and elections:
   1. Organizing Committee (1)
   2. Regional delegate Alternates (1)
   3. Balloting Committee (2)
   4. LCRMS (1)

9. Executive Committee Motions
10. Unfinished business
11. Correspondence
12. Executive and Committee Reports
13. Good and Welfare
14. Adjournment

***ASL Interpreters have been confirmed for this meeting***

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

 President

Anju Parmar

Robyn Mann

Kat Poch

Michael Seney

2^nd Vice President

Raylene Marshall

Darcy Purewal

Education Director

Adrian Chow

Doug Kellam

Alex Pensato

Edward Wan

Executive Shop Stewards Internal PPC/ PIF Shift 1

Zenaida Garcia

Arvind Parmar

Following are Nominated and Acclaimed

Grievance Officer :  Alan Dobbs

 Recording Secretary/ By Laws Chair:  Neerja Bhatara

Executive Shop Stewards

Executive Shop Steward External MSC: Surinder Kumar

Executive Shop Stewards external LC:

Martin Kosik

Lisa Quattrocchi

Executive Shop Steward GLT:    Raj Deo

The schedule for the 2025 annual election will be presented in a future bulletin. Congratulations to those acclaimed to a position and good luck to those nominated.

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

On Thursday January 29, 2025, Canada Post requested consult with CUPW to break the past practice of how our members are moved out of section.  The previous agreement was that volunteers were canvased, if none, then moved by reverse seniority. Canada Post has decided to use a new practice of being able to move anyone, anywhere with no respect to seniority or anything else.  CUPW objects to this whole heartedly.  We believe seniority counts for something.  We also believe that, left to their own devices, management will use it to target members or move the same people over and over because they move without questioning.  We believe that the reverse seniority helped shield us from these issues as it introduced a policy that was universal.  Even though CUPW objected, Canada Post is pushing ahead with this new unfair practice.

We need to fight this new unfair process to try to ensure fairness.  Here are some things we would like our members to do when moved without using the reverse seniority process.

1. File ALL backfilling grievances. It is difficult for the corporation to move people without backfilling the rotation you were on.  We need to hold Canada Post responsible for this violation of the collective agreement.
2. Use your right under Article 9.07 to complain if you feel you have been moved unfairly. Management needs to know what they are doing wrong and how it effects people.
3. Use Article 6.03(c) when you are moved out of section. This article is to be used whenever you start in a new section.  It is 15 min with a steward when starting a new assignment.
4. If you believe you are being targeted by management please consider filing a harassment complaint or a Notice of Occurrence. Everyone has the right to work harassment free.
5. Care about your health and safety! If you are not sure of all process’ ask.  Ask where the emergency exits are.  Ask where the muster stations are.  Don’t take anything to do with your health and safety lightly.

If you have any concerns or question, please reach out to me or your shift Executive shop steward.

In Solidarity,

 Bryan Schuck, 3^rd Vice President

8:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M. (Thursday, Friday & Saturday)

*These courses will be held in person unless public health guidelines change. *

This 3-day course is for Vancouver Local Members who are either interested in becoming Shop Stewards or want to learn more about their rights under the Collective Agreement.

Course prerequisite: You MUST have attended at least one (1) General Membership Meeting in the past twelve (12) months, and be a member in good standing prior to the course application deadline.

Please fill out the Vancouver Local Education application form legibly and in full. Must include your work location, shift, and days off. Partially completed or illegible applications will not be accepted.

Application Deadline: February 11^th (Tuesday) at Noon.

Applications can be accepted by mail: CUPW Vancouver Local 109- 4238 Lozells Ave, Burnaby, BC V5A 0C4, by fax (604)-685-4931, or, in person at the Union Office.

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

On behalf of Michael Seney Education director 

To the Members of CUPW Vancouver Local

Please note that the Strike Pay Fund Account with Community Savings will remain open, please disregard earlier communications as to the Account closing on the 10^th.

Sincerest Apologizes for any miscommunications on the Matter.

Kevin Biggs, Secretary Treasurer                                         

Vancouver Local 846

 Full-Time Officer

President
2nd Vice President
Grievance Officer

Table Officers

Education Director
Recording Secretary/By-Laws Chair

Executive Shop Stewards*

PPC/PIF Internal Shift 1
GLT (Groups 3 & 4)

Group 2 Transportation (1 Executive Steward)

Group 2 Letter Carrier (2 Executive Stewards)

The duties of these positions are described in the Vancouver Local By-laws, and are available at the Union Hall or at any General Membership Meeting.

Written and signed nominations with acceptances must be submitted to the Union Hall, Unit 109-4238 lozells Avenue, Burnaby, by 12:00 P.M. (noon) on Saturday, February 15th, 2025. You can also fax your nomination and acceptance at (604) 685-4931. No late nominations will be accepted. Candidates and their nominators must be members in good standing. In addition, candidates and the nominators must have attended at least three (3) General Membership Meetings in the previous twelve (12) months. Please send your nominations to Kevin Biggs local Sec Treasurer.

The exact dates for the election to be announced by the Balloting Committee. The schedule for the 2025 plant-gate election will be presented in a bulletin after nominations close.

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

Pursuant to Article 9.4(g) of the Vancouver Local By-Laws: To be elected as a Shop Steward a nominee must have completed a basic shop steward course, as well as be a Member in Good Standing. Nominators must also be Members in Good Standing.

Stewards who were elected in 2023 need to run for re-election, as their two (2) year term.

Stewards who were elected in the January 2024 Steward elections do not have to run in this election.

Any Stewards who were appointed by the Local Executive Committee since the last annual election must also run for election this March in order to maintain their position.

The Balloting Committee will issue a bulletin with the balloting schedule in the near future.

These may be mailed or dropped off: 109-4238 Lozells Ave, Burnaby BC, or faxed, to this office at 604-685-4931 if you choose. We do not accept nominations by email.

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

• Tuesday, Dec 24^th (Christmas Eve) 8am-1pm
• Wednesday, Dec 25^th (Christmas Day) CLOSED
• Thursday, Dec 26^th (Boxing Day) CLOSED
• Friday, Dec 27^th OPEN Regular hours
• Tuesday, Dec 31^st (New Years Eve) 8am-1pm
• Wednesday, Jan 1^st (New Years Day) CLOSED
• Thursday, Jan 2^nd OPEN Regular hours
• Friday, Jan 3^rd OPEN Regular hours

We would like to thank everyone for all of your hard work this year and wish you all a very safe and happy holiday season!

In Solidarity,

The Vancouver Local Executive

I am a retired postal worker who wants to thank all of you for the courage, determination and solidarity you showed in the November and December 2024 strike.

The first strike I participated in was in 1975 and the last strike I participated in was 2011.   During this period, me and my coworkers were ordered back to work in 1978, 1987, 1991,1997, and 2011.   CUPW was also ordered back to work in 2018 and 2024.

Initially the back to work rulings depressed and demoralized me.  All I was doing was striking to improve my working conditions and to better the postal service and the government of Canada responded by attacking my basic rights to free collective bargaining and the right to strike.

But, I realized that being demoralized was just what Canada Post and the government wanted.   They wanted to stop all of us from our proper and just fights to have safe work, decent staffing, fair wages, and a postal service that meets people’s needs.   So, even though it was hard and at times frustrating and maddening I kept on fighting.

As a retired postal worker, I also need to thank all of you for striking to stop the erosion of the gains me and my coworkers made through strikes, and other struggles.   This is so important and it is also heartwarming and wonderful.

As someone who is dependent on her Canada Post Defined Benefit Pension to live, I also want to thank and congratulate you for saying no to Canada Post’s pension rollbacks.   You not only protected my pension, you safeguarded your own pensions, and the pensions of future workers.   I am immensely grateful for this.

When I went to your picket lines or read about picket activity on social media I was so impressed.   You took care of each other, you had fun, you were determined, and you continually sent Canada Post a strong message that you wanted fairness and justice.

So please accept my thanks and admiration and remember that “The Struggle Continues”

In Solidarity,

Marion Pollack

The winter holiday season is upon us and this year like many of you I am not in the festive spirit either.   I am angry, disappointed and upset with both Canada Post and the Federal Government.

For more than a year, Canada Post has failed to negotiate with CUPW in good faith.   They have demanded rollbacks and made excuses, but have failed to put forward proposals that address real workplace issues.

The Federal Government has made statements about the right to free Collective bargaining and the right to strike, but they have invoked section 107 of the Canada Labour Code to force us back to work.

CUPW members know that back to work orders are not going to increase our morale at work.  Back to work orders do not improve labour relations.   Back to work orders do not force Canada Post to adopt a reasonable approach in bargaining.

I know that the time since November 15 when we went on strike has affected so many of you.

During this period, I tried to go to every picket line and I have seen amazing solidarity, mutual support and friendship.   The range of food on the picket lines and the many different ways your shared meals with each other has been amazing.   The spirit on the lines has given me the reasons to stay strong. Your strength on the picket lines has sent a strong message to Canada Post.   I loved the dancing, the diversity signs, the costumes, and the dogs.

I want to thank each and every one of you for your solidarity and generosity. It kept me going and I know it kept so many other people strong.  I want you all to know that I am proud of the members of the Vancouver local. Your attendance on the picket lines made a huge difference.

I know that some of you feel defeated.   But, we have not lost.   We still have tremendous support from the public and other Unions.   We stopped Canada Post from forcing their rollbacks on us.  We continued to push for our rights and justice, in the face of Canada Post’s efforts to discourage us.

Each time we were forced back to work we stayed strong.   I urge you all to keep the Solidarity momentum going. Keep on planning the day of actions at your work place.

Once again, I would like to thank the Executives, Picket Captains, Zone coordinators and the volunteers for putting in long hours every day to make things easier for all of us.

I know and I can assure you all that we will be strong, and powerful in 2025.

Season’s greetings and Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

Dear Members,

I would personally like to thank each and every one of you who made it out to the picket lines to support our Members who have struggled through the past 4 and a half weeks, showing our strength against the employer in our fight for a fair contract at the bargaining table. Unfortunately, we did not achieve our goals at the bargaining table, and the CIRB has ordered us back to work until such time as a Collective Agreement can be properly negotiated, with negotiations needing to be completed by May.

The office is working diligently to address the issues with the Discrepancy Forms, and this process has taken longer than we anticipated. Working within the parameters of Daily Strike Pay has also proven to be a challenge. That said, I would like to provide an update to the Membership.

On Tuesday, December 17th, the CIRB ordered us back to work. As a part-time Officer, and with other Members volunteering in the office, this created some challenges. Article 26.06(b) requires 5 days’ notice to the employer to be booked off on Union Business, which slowed down our progress. There was uncertainty about whether the book-offs would be honored, meaning we would have to wait 5 days before being officially booked off to resume the necessary work. I was able to get my book-off done to keep things moving, but other Members had to wait an extra day before they were booked off.

read more here

If you are interested in volunteering your time between 8am to 10am on Monday December 16^th please show up to any of the below offices with your picket signs.

MP Parm Bains

11331 Coppersmith way, Richmond BC

Honourable Harjit Sajjan

6406 Victoria drive, Vancouver BC

Honourable Terry Beech

3906 East Hastings, Burnaby BC

MP Taleeb Noormohamed

3077 Granville street, Vancouver BC

Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson

310 Esplande E #201, North Vancouver BC

Let’s make some noise and let the Liberals know ordering us back to work illegally under section 107 of the Canada Labour Code is a massive violation of workers rights and Canadian democracy.

Canada Post must bargain in good faith.  For more information please contact

[email protected]

[email protected]

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

There will be much more information coming out in the next days so unless  anything changes, we will be holding the picket lines.

Stay United Stay Informed

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

As your Local Grievance Officer, I am advising all members to file grievances:

• If you were receiving short term disability payments at the start of this strike
• Or you were receiving medical benefits under our long-term disability plan

If you have had these payments and benefits cut off, I will fight to have them paid for by this heartless Corporation. Please contact me directly at the Hall for further direction.

Allan Dobbs (604) 685-6581 ext. 5

In Solidarity,

Allan Dobbs, Grievance Officer

In some situations, the employer brought in scabs and drove them through our picket lines to break our resolve.

I started in Scarborough Ontario and we held the line to stop the employer from introducing a new classification to deal with mechanized mail preparation. Because of that experience we had to strike again so that we could negotiate provisions for technological change.

The issues in those two strikes were remarkably similar to the present situation where the employer, among other concessions, seeks to create positions with lesser wages, benefits and security to deal with changing work and processes at Canada Post.

I was on picket lines in Scarborough, Vancouver, Nelson, Edmonton (as local president) and was also National Director and National Executive Board member during the 2011 strike when Stephen Harper and Pierre Poilievre legislated an end to the strike after only days of rotating strikes. That legislation aimed to destroy our pension plan and even reduced the employers wage offer at the time. These politicians are not there to help us as workers. A Liberal government jailed Jean Claude Parrot for standing up to them.

From my experience I have seen how strikes build our solidarity and create an environment of cooperation and support among workers. This solidarity will continue even after you return to work.

Strikes are a time when we question our futures at work and in society as a whole. We start to see the unfairness of the situation as it pertains to workers. The experience is remarkably similar in every local large and small across our country. Other union members from other occupations will join us on our picket lines and in our rally’s because they identify with our struggle.

During an extended strike some people will experience insecurity and some will face hardships that are frightening. We are all in.

John Bail (Retiree)

I’m one of those retiree supporters. And I’m sure my reasons for participating in solidarity actions are very much the same as the other “old timers” that younger workers may have noticed at these events.

For one thing, several of the pressing issues in 2024 are remarkably similar to the issues when CUPW members of my generation hit the streets fifty years ago or so. My first national strike was in 1974, when the overriding issue was Canada Post’s attempt to impose a 2-tier wage system on new hires—mainly women and racialized workers hired during the first wave of automation.  Postal workers in full solidarity won that battle.

Later, the obsession of the employer with attempts to divide workers using the same kind of technique continued unabated.

So, it is no surprise that the current attack of the Corporation features totally unacceptable “tiered” conditions such as establishing a group of “precarious” workers on the weekends outrageously limited to 8 hours work per week. It’s been accurately described as a “race to the bottom”.

Likewise, my fellow retirees and I are totally appalled by the attempt to strip away the Defined Benefit Pension plan from future retirees that guarantees cost of living increases. This plan was fought for and won in past struggles and its replacement by a market-based Defined Contribution Pension plan geared to reducing, rather than improving the lives of retirees. This is a step backwards to an earlier century

There are many other concession items in the Corporation’s sorry excuse for a collective agreement “offer” that illustrate how important it is for active members and retirees to stand together with a determined insistence that this strike will advance postal workers’ wages, rights, benefits and power in the workplace. What I’ve seen of the strength on the picket lines tells me this stands a great chance of success.  This is encouraging and exciting to a retiree like me.

I want to mention one important further matter that motivates me to actively support this strike. The anti-union model pursued by the Corporation in its demands is one that, if adopted, would render all its workers instantly replaceable and the union representing them basically powerless. To this end it has for some years promoted the development of a precarious workforce and entertained the prospect of privatization on the not-too-distant horizon.

Retirees, for many years during our working lives were in the middle of struggles to advance a completely opposing agenda— one that promoted a vision of a public Postal Service that uses the huge Post Office infrastructure to expand services through plans like those advanced in CUPW’s “Delivering Community Power”—and to ensure good, meaningful and unionized jobs for generations into the future.

I’m committed to supporting this important project, which can be realized with the united strength and power of CUPW workers, retirees, the labour movement and our many supporters in communities across Canada.

Winning this strike and continuing the fight for a public postal service will require a lot of work, to be sure.

But here’s one retiree, along with many others, who embrace that struggle.  We take our inspiration from the active members of CUPW on strike who are showing the way. SOLIDARITY!

Evert Hoogers (Retiree)

When I see members picketing in all sorts of weather I am grateful.   The fact that our picket lines have been places for karaoke singing, bhangra and other types of dancing, incredible food experiences, and dog shows makes me smile and sends a strong message to Canada Post that we are not giving up.  We are telling Canada Post that we want a fair negotiated Collective Agreement and its not much to ask for.

The members along with local Sec Treasure who have spent hours and hours processing forms and ensuring to get strike pay are doing incredible work. They are working hard to get it done.

Our Picket Captains, Zone coordinators, local executives and other members who are working behind scenes with the nitty gritty of running a strike have my complete admiration.

All of our efforts are having positive results.  Canada Post thought we would be weak and divided but we are not.   Canada Post thought that we would not get public support but everywhere we are getting honks, food and coffee donations. and we are getting more and more support on our lines from our allies on the picket lines across.  Last week BC Federation of Labour held a rally to support the Postal Workers and we also had NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh visited the picket lines at NFDC.

Our local is doing tremendous amount of work when it comes to engaging members. We did an amazing action at PPC for stopping MGMT and APOC going in to work while our members are getting layoffs. This action made a big impact in our region and it was not only empowering but sent a strong message to Canada Post that, we are 55,000 strong. We also occupied an office of Burnaby MP Terry Beach to relay the concerns around members on long term disability who are not able to use benefits they need on daily basis because Canada Post inhumanly cut their benefits.

So far, instead of listening and trying to resolve issues, Canada Post seems to be intent on trying to intimidate us.   To date, Canada Post has:

• laid off: In our local about 47 have reported being laid off.  It may not be even legal for Canada Post to lay people off in the middle of a strike.
• deny of extended health benefits.   This has put some Postal Workers and their families in bad situations as they cannot afford to pay for needed medications and therapies.
• refuse to pay sick and injured people who are off on short term disability.

CUPW is working hard to achieve a fair and just Collective Agreement and to make sure that postal workers get all the support and solidarity they need.

Thanks for the support and Solidarity which shows Postal Workers are unstoppable. Keep up the great work and Fight the good fight!!!!

Stay United, Stay Informed

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President Vancouver Local 846

Clearly it is not because I like spending lots of time on picket lines.  While I have had fun and some amazing conversations on the line, I know that picketing in the rain and wind is hard.  And, as I get older and struggle with walking and mobility issues it is difficult for me to be on the line.

But, I have gone to several lines, attended several rallies and done as much as I can do to support striking postal workers for the following reasons:

1. During my time at Canada Post me and all my coworkers fought hard to improve our wages and working conditions.  It is something I am enormously proud about.   I don’t want to see these gains eroded.
2. During the pandemic I benefited from postal workers processing and delivering my letters and parcels.   They were heroes to me and still are.   It upsets and angers me that Canada Post is now treating postal workers as villains.
3. I saw too many workers getting injured when I was working at Canada Post and I am meeting retirees who have carried those injuries and pain into retirement.  That is wrong and needs to change.
4. When I first started working at Canada Post in 1974, I made $4.24 an hour and I could afford food, rent, vacations and have money to spare.   It was great.  Now I am meeting postal workers who are struggling to pay rent.
5. I know how expanded postal services such as senior check-in services will alleviate some of the concerns my friends and family have about me.   That will certainly reduce some tension between me and them.   I want that to happen.
6. I have a secure retirement because I have a Canada Post Defined Benefit Pension Plan.   I want others to have the same.  But, if Canada Post gets away with a far less secure Defined Contribution Pension plan for new hires not only will my pension plan be possibly weakened, but others won’t have the same wonderful retirement that I have.
7.  I am mad that a company I worked really hard for has decided to take away the extended health benefits of strikers.   That is just plain mean.   And it is really cruel to deny people on short term disability leave their money during this strike.
8. With all the stuff going on in this world inspiration is hard to find.  And, when I go to picket lines or talk to strikers I am constantly inspired by CUPW members on the picket line.  I see solidarity, I see support, I see creativity, and I see determination.   This makes my life better.

So, thank you and remember the Struggle Continues.  I am with you.

In Solidarity,

Marion Pollack (Retiree)

Hello my persistent, picketing, Postie pals!

A lot of us are already fearing or feeling the financial pinch of being locked in a job action. Having updates that make it seem like there isn’t an end in sight is definitely not helping the stress level of our colleagues. A while back we were trying to notify everyone about a supportive offer from Community Savings and Loan (contact link: https://www.comsavings.com/more/contact-us). That offer still exists, and I want to share the details with all of our coworkers one more time. All someone has to do is go into a branch, open an account, and provide proof that you are an active CUPW member. If your credit score is 600+, you are automatically approved for a line of credit for $2500. That line will have a 0% interest rate, for three years! (36 months). They want us to know that they support our struggle, and they’re literally putting their money where their mouth is. If your credit score is lower than 600, their offer may still be available to you. It simply means they require a look into your financial history. If you’re one of the members who is concerned, I hope this provides some assistance. They suggest booking an appointment, so call them.

Speaking of financial assistance, our Organizing Director Kat Poch has compiled a document which helps address most of the problems that someone could be facing. It’s her financial hardship strike kit, and I suggest you have a look at it here!

(https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zOaEliEpbZUguBryybpm8076eusSRhTyaVFwXepryGU/mobilebasic) It includes some web-based tools to help your planning, some groups to support us in everything from food, to health, to more personal items. There’s even a sample letter that could be used to address someone to whom you owe a payment.

This time isn’t easy for any of us, and I hope that these resources can be of use to people. Here’s hoping that we’re able to sign a well-negotiated contract soon, so we can move passed this stressful phase and get back to a more regular life.

Stay warm, Stay strong. We hope this won’t last long.

Joseph Henderson McCance 1^st Vice President

Joseph Henderson McCance 1^st Vice President

 PPC -5940 Ferguson Rd, Richmond, BC V7B 0B1 24/hours (plant)
PIF – 8340 Fraser Reach Ct, Burnaby, BC V3N 5G4 24/hours ( plant)
NFDC – 7447 N Fraser Wy, Burnaby, BC V5J 4Z3 6am-6pm
North Burnaby – 2758 Norland Ave, Burnaby, BC V5B 3A6 6am-6pm
BURNABY 3 – 6025 Sussex Ave, Burnaby, BC V5H 0A0 6am-6pm
LCD 1 AND 2  – 333 Woodland Dr, Vancouver, BC V5L 3P6 6am-6pm
station   F – 2160 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 5K7 6am-6pm
Glen Drive  – 1330 Glen Dr, Vancouver, BC V6A 3S9 6am-6pm
Station G – 2025 W 42nd Ave, Vancouver, BC V6M 2B5 6am-6pm
SVDC – 8726 Barnard St, Vancouver, BC V6P 5G5 6am-6pm
RDC – 7680 River Rd, Richmond, BC V6X 1X5 6am-6pm

Info Picket:
Downtown boxes – 495 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC 6am- 2pm

Hello Sisters, Brothers, Cousins, and Others!

l have  heard a lot of murmurs about people having their long-term assignments (now on referred to as LTA) collapsed, about people being laid off, and some general confusion in the ranks. I wanted to make this bulletin to try to address some of these concerns. Many of our members, temp/term/causal & permanent alike, have been receiving an email stating that they have been removed from our LTA. The amusing part, is that the corporation cites Article 17.06 in their email, but we’ve had our C.A entirely suspended since Thursday November 14^th in the Pacified region. Anyway…

read more here

Important Notice to All Members:

We have been informed that Canada Post is contacting our members with notices of “Temporary Layoffs.” This is a scare tactic being used by the employer to divide us.

Please be aware that this is happening nationwide. If you receive such a call, we urge you to take the following steps immediately:

• Apply for EI benefits with Service Canada immediately
• Send your full name, date of hire, and employee number to the Local Hall at [email protected]  

Additionally, we will be filing a grievance to address this unlawful conduct by the employer.

Stay united and informed. Together, we will ensure that our rights are protected.

 In solidarity

 CUPW Vancouver Local 846

CUPW: SOCIAL STEWARDS

This course trains members to be social stewards. Social stewards are resource people who assist co-workers experiencing personal problems. They listen to members, help them identify their concerns and find solutions, and refer them to appropriate resources. This course familiarizes participants with a social steward’s role and responsibilities. They explore ways to approach workplace problems, learn how to support members and how to gather and share information on the resources available to members.

CUPW: HUMAN RIGHTS FOR CUPW LEADERS

This course is aimed at Local Executive Committees. It provides an overview of human rights issues and concepts, acknowledging the particular human rights-related responsibilities and challenges they face as leaders.

Prerequisite: Applicants must be a member of their Local Executive.

All applications must be signed and submitted by the Local President or their designate.

The deadline for registration is 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. Please ensure your applications are in by that date, any application received after the deadline will not be considered. Please send your Applications to 109-4238 lozells Ave, Burnaby V5A 0C4 or you can fax at (604) 685-4931.

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

 STOP and reflect   

LISTEN to Indigenous voices

LEARN the calls to action

DE-COLONIZE!

Original artwork- “Where the Sea Meets the Sky” – Haisla Collins

Free Film Screening: We Were Children

10:30 a.m. + 3:00 p.m. Trout Lake Community Center (3360 Victoria Dr, Vancouver)

Free but please register on the Trout Lake Community Center website

*Warning: This film contains disturbing content and is recommended for audiences 16 years of age or older. Parental discretion, and/or watching this film within a group setting is strongly advised.

Walk from Vancouver Aboriginal Policing Centre :

11am 1719 Franklin St to Grandview Park 1657 Charles St.

Wear Orange Shirts

 Voices of our Children National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Teaching Pow Wow:

Pier Park (430 Front Street, New Westminster)

September 30 from 12pm to 4 pm

Burnaby City Hall Artworks Display:

Burnaby City Hall (4949 Canada Wy, Burnaby)

September 1^st-30^th

Skookum Surrey Gude Group:

Holland Park (13428 – Old Yale Road)

On September 27 from 3pm-5pm,

In Solidarity,

Vancouver Local Executives                           lb/CUPE-3338

Let me make it clear, censoring our right to post something on our bulletin boards and website is a direct violation of the Collective Agreement.  We have the right to post whatever information we feel is important to our members.

36.02      BULLETIN BOARDS

(a)  Bulletin Boards Bulletin boards shall be provided by the Corporation at convenient locations for the use of the Union. These locations shall be determined through consultation.

(b) The contents of notices or other material posted on bulletin boards shall not require the prior approval of the Corporation.

(c) The contents of notices or other material posted on bulletin boards shall not be libellous or defamatory.

As I have mentioned in my previous bulletin that Some of the behaviors in shift 3 need to stop.  Bringing it to our members attention and what to do about it is significantly important to us as a whole.  We need to stand together to protect our members which the corporation is taking away from us, by censoring us on our own boards. They may try to take away our voice, but we will always stand together to protect and guide our members in need.

Do not get discouraged by the actions of your team leaders. Please do not hesitate to report further incidents to the local office or you can email at [email protected]

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar , President                                                                        lb/CUPE-3338

What’s at Stake?

Canada Post’s proposals threaten to undermine our working conditions, our rights, and our future. Here’s what they’re trying to push through:

• New Part-Time Classification: Up to 30% of a station could be filled with part-time letter carriers working flexible hours, weakening our full-time positions and increasing job insecurity.
• Eliminating Protections for Retail Workers: Increasing the use of part-time workers and stripping away job security.
• Cutting Our Wash-Up Time: An attack on our basic rights and dignity at work.
• Reducing Overtime Pay: No more double time after the 3rd hour of overtime, meaning less compensation for our hard work.
• Ending Marriage Leave: Removing a vital benefit that supports our families.
• Cutting Vacation Time for New Hires: New hires will lose the 7th week of vacation, creating a two-tier system.
• Eliminating Night Workers’ Leave: More pressure on those working the toughest hours.
• Increasing Costs for Benefits: Flexible benefits with higher costs, especially for those who need them most. Retirees could face paying 100% of their benefits, up from 35%, tripling the cost.
• Undermining Our Pension: Attacks on our pension contributions threaten the security of our retirement and the livelihood of those already retired.
• Stripping Route Ownership from Letter Carriers: No more fixed delivery routes, your route changes every day “based on volumes” with no input from a Union Observer. Management wants to remove Union involvement in LCRMS and MSCWSS changes.
• Introducing a New Classification (POL6): This includes Station PO4’s, LCAs, and day & night routers, further eroding our existing roles and rights.

Canada Post is giving us nothing in this round of bargaining. They refuse to discuss wages, and the Union has already filed a complaint with the Labour Minister and CIRB.

What Do We Do Next?

The power of our Union lies in our unity. Now, more than ever, we must stand together and vote YES it job action. By doing so, we send a clear message: We will not accept these rollbacks. We will protect our rights, our benefits, and our future.

Your Local Executive Committee strongly recommends a YES vote and urges every member to participate. Check the bulletin boards and our website for the Strike Vote schedule. Now is the time to make our voices heard. Together, we will fight the good fight and win.

In Solidarity

Anju Parmar, President & Local Executive Committee

November 21-24, 2024 @ Harrison Hot Springs

Fight Back

Fighting Back is designed to develop the capacity of members to lead and organize struggles in the workplace and more broadly in society. It calls on participants to shed the mindset of victimization and powerlessness and develop power through organizing.

* This course is recommended for local executive members.

Basic Steward Course (2 classes)

Stewards are the backbone of the union. The aim of this course is to provide new stewards with knowledge and confidence. Topics include: the roles of the steward, how to investigate and file a grievance, communication skills, shop steward rights, the steward as organizer/mobilizer, and key provisions of the collective agreement.

*Note this course is for new stewards

Grievance-Handling

The aim of this course is to reinforce participants’ grievance knowledge, as well as their investigation and advocacy skills. Topics include shop steward rights, distinguishing between fact and opinion, active listening and duty of fair representation. participants have opportunities to work on being assertive, and to practice preparing and arguing grievances.

*This course is suited to stewards with some experience.

All applications must be signed and submitted by the Local President or their designate. The deadline for registration is 1 p.m. on Wednesday, October 9^th, 2024. Please ensure your applications are in by that date, any application received after the deadline will not be considered. Applications can be submitted by mail to Vancouver local office unit 109-4238 lozells Avenue Burnaby V5L4C4 or faxed to (604) 685-4931.

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

ATTEND THE RALLY

Where: 17569 104 Ave Surrey

When: 10 am Aug 23^rd

Contact Kat for coordination Details ([email protected])

Where: Oxford Connector Entrance (Near 1970 Oxford Connector)

OR

Coast meridian crossing Entrance (Near 1525 Lougheed Hwy)

When: 24/7 until this dispute is resolved

Attend when you’d like. contact: the Hall for “In Support Signs”

OR

Kat for group visits ([email protected])

We are thrilled to announce that, we are attending the Metro Vancouver Labour Day Celebration with co-hosted by the New Westminster & District Labour Council!

Event Details:

• Date: Monday, September 2, 2024
• Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Location: Edmonds Park, 7433 Humphries Ave., Burnaby, BC

Join us in Edmonds Park for a free, fun, and family-friendly celebration! The event will feature:

• Exciting speakers (starting at 11:00 AM)
• Bouncy castles, games, and entertainment for kids
• Live music
• Food
• Union and community organization booths
• And much more!

read more here

CUPW has filed a Notice of Dispute and a strike or Lockout is imminent. it’s important to be proactive and prepared, especially if you’re receiving benefits through WorkSafe BC, STDP or LTD. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know and actions required.

WorkSafe BC (WCB) Claims:

Your wage loss benefits from WorkSafe BC will continue uninterrupted, even if a strike or lockout occurs at Canada Post. This is because WCB provides support regardless of strike actions. *RS&CM Vol.ii policy C5-35.00

Since WCB payments come through Canada Post, a strike could disrupt these payments. If your wage loss benefits are processed via Canada Post, contact your WorkSafe BC case manager as soon as possible. Inform them of the potential strike and discuss alternative payment arrangements directly with WorkSafe BC to ensure continuity.

Contact your case manager to discuss payment arrangements and inform them of the potential strike.

read more here

  Raffle Details:

• 1 Ticket for $2
• 3 Tickets for $5
• 8 Tickets for $10
• 20 Tickets for $20 
• Draw Date: September 28^th 2024

 Your participation in this raffle will directly contribute to our collective strength and comfort on the picket lines. Half of the proceeds will go to the winner, and the other half will fund the essential items we need during our strike action.

Support the Cause: Every ticket you buy brings us one step closer to ensuring we have the necessary resources to stand strong together. Let’s make this raffle a huge success!

Thank you for your continued support and solidarity.

In Solidarity,

Kat Poch                                                                                   lb/CUPE-3338

As we prepare for the upcoming strike action, we are launching a Gear Donation Campaign to ensure we have the necessary supplies for our time on the picket lines.

Campaign Dates:
Start:   August 19, 2024
End:     September 28, 2024

What We Need:

• Tents (Pop up canopies or otherwise)
• Tables
• Flashlights
• Stoves
• Heaters
• Etc.

Each station is requested to set up a collection area for these items. Please contribute any gear you can spare. Your donations will help us stay strong and well-equipped during the strike.

Collection Details:

• I will be collecting gear from installations on September 27, 2024.
• Any extra gear can be brought to the General Membership Meeting (GMM) on September 28, 2024.

Thank you for your continued support and solidarity.

In solidarity,

Kat Poch, Org Director                                                                               lb/CUPW-3338

8 am to 4 pm

Held at the Maritime Labour Centre located at 130-111 Victoria Dr., Vancouver, B.C.

(Free parking out back .Transit stops on Powell Str. or E. Hastings Str. & Victoria Dr.)

1-day course, you will get answers to your questions about retirement. Learn how your pension contributions and benefits are calculated and about the income you will receive from public pensions and more.

(No GMM required for this course)

Please fill out the Vancouver Local Education application form legibly and in full.

Applications found on the CUPW Vancouver webpage, Partially completed or illegible  applications will not be accepted.

Application Deadline: Thursday   August 4th, 2024 @ noon.

In Solidarity,

Michael Seney

Education Director, Vancouver   local                                  lb/CUPE-3338

Political Action / Media Training

We live in challenging times. The future of the postal service and trade unionism is at risk. There is no use in pretending otherwise. This course is about shaking up things, moving our heads beyond grievances, arbitrations and consultations that do little to improve the daily life of the average worker while postal service is decimated. Effective use of media – which take different forms – can strongly contribute to a successful campaign. In this, participants will develop a critical understanding of media, learn general media skills and how to create and deliver a clear effective message. We also explore the use of social and community media.

Please note participants for this course must either have a position on their local executive or who are strongly active within their local membership and/or their community.

 Leadership for Local Executive Committee

This 5-day course is specifically designed for Local Executive Committee members. It delves into the core principles, approaches, and perspectives of leadership, providing a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to lead effectively within a union context. Participants will explore how to navigate the complexities of union leadership, uncover their own leadership potential, and develop the specific skills necessary for successful leadership within their Local.

Please note participants for this course must hold a position on their local executive.

These courses present a unique opportunity for both Regions to work collaboratively on the challenges we face daily. By joining forces, we can build a stronger, united front that tackles issues with greater efficacy and innovation. Additionally, participating in these courses allows us to reenergize and gain fresh perspectives, fostering a sense of renewal and commitment to our shared goals.

The deadline for registration is 12pm on August 7^TH, 2024. (NO EXCEPTIONS) Please ensure your applications are in by the date, any application received after the deadline will not be considered. Space is limited to 20 participants per class.

To be considered, all applications must be signed and submitted by the Local President or their designate. Applications can be submitted by mail to 109- 4238 LOZELLS AVENUE, BURNABY V5A 0C4 or you can fax at 604 685 4931. You can also drop your application in person. 

As this course is offered under the PEL provisions of our Collective agreement, all costs including loss of wages, transportation and meals will be paid by National Union.

Interested members should be aware that there will be some evening sessions involved and that all sessions of the course are mandatory.

Please see your Union bulletin boards for application.

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

Les Filles du Roi National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 23, 2024. 3:45 pm
Lochmaddy Theater 1181 Seymour St. Vancouver BC

2nd Annual National Indigenous Peoples Day Block Party
June 21, 2024. Noon to 6:00 pm
Carnegie Community Centre, Vancouver BC

Surrey’s National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration and Wellness Event
June 21, 2024. 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Bill Reid Millenium Amphitheatre, 17728 64th Ave Surrey BC

Surrey National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 21, 2024. 3:00 pm
13450 104 Ave, Surrey BC

National Indigenous Peoples Day – Maple Ridge
June 22, 2024. 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
City of Maple Ridge, 11995 Haney Pl., Maple Ridge BC

National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 21, 2024. 9:30 am to 2:30 pm.
Moody Park, New Westminster BC

National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 21, 2024. 4:00 pm to 8:30 pm
Ambleside Park, West Vancouver BC

National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 21, 2024. 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
Spirit Square, 20550 Douglas Cres #4B6 Langley BC

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar President

Work Floor Captain Training July 12^th Friday

Held at: CUPW Vancouver Local Office

#109 – 4238 Lozells Avenue, Burnaby 8am to 4pm

CUPW is only as strong as our work floors are organized, unified around a plan, and willing to mobilize. Union leadership will never have the power to defeat the boss and government on their own. Without mass buy-in from our members to strengthen CUPW from the work floor up, our jobs as postal workers will keep deteriorating.

The corporation is positioned to use Amazon and the pandemic as excuses to cut us down in bargaining in 2023. We must be ready, but our capacity to fight forward will only be proportional to how many of us are committed to building the solidarity of our union, in whatever way we can.

The Building Worker Power campaign is the first time since 1988 that CUPW has committed to a National plan to build up the internal capacity of our members to confront the employer directly on the work floor. For this campaign to succeed we will need hundreds of members to volunteer as work floor captains to be trained to help their co-workers collectively assert their rights.

read more here

Postal Workers across the country are planning to have May 30^th as Day of Action to organize the work floors to take back the power. This will send a strong message to the boss that the work floor belongs to the workers.

As you may have seen by now, on one hand Canada Post has shown a bigger deficit and on other hand they have given themselves an enormous number of big bonuses, while some of our members are struggling on various issues like Bullying and Harassment, Article 54 accommodations and an ongoing battle on more day shift positions.

During the negotiations we all need to stand together in Solidarity and show the boss that we are ready to “FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT”. On May 30^th we are asking our members to take part in the day of Action and organize the work floors. You can have work floor meetings, black T shirt day etc.  and loads of pictures to support our negotiators.

The next few months will be very important for us, we will need to show the boss that we DESERVE better. Going forward we will be having monthly day of actions in our local.

On May 30^th We will show the employer that Vancouver local is ready to take on this struggle.

The Struggle Continues …………

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

Upon filing a WCB claim, a Case Manager will review all the documents submitted by your healthcare providers, your account of the incident leading to the work-related injury, and any documents provided by our employer from their investigation. All these documents can be accessed in the Work Safe BC portal, allowing each injured member to view any information related to their file.

Sometimes, the job description our employer submits may not match the actual tasks we perform daily, or the reported injury occurrence may not align with the workers’ submissions. In such cases of conflicting statements, the assigned WorkSafe BC Case Manager may request a job site visit to better understand the work performed, take photographs, or gain a general understanding of the work area to help clarify the work descriptions provided.

Furthermore, any worker with an ongoing claim can request WCB to conduct a job site visit to help explain body movements, demonstrate the repetitive movement during the workday, or show how certain tasks such as lifting and carrying parcels may lead to the reported work-related injury.

read more here

The Spring education seminars for the Pacific Region will be held at Harrison Hot Springs Resort. The courses will run from Thursday, May 2 – 5, 2024. The following courses are being offered:

Basic Shop Steward

This course aims to provide new Stewards with basic training, knowledge, and confidence. Topics include the different roles of the Steward, how to investigate and file a grievance, communication skills, Shop Steward rights, the Steward as Organizer/Mobilizer, and key provisions of the RSMC and Urban Collective Agreements. *Note this course is for new Stewards  

Strike Prep

This course is aimed at mobilizing the membership during the rounds of negotiation as well as preparing for and conducting a strike. Many CUPW members have never been on strike. The last round of bargaining in 2018 has seen us utilize the strategy of rotating strikes before being unjustly force back to work by a prejudicial legislation made by the liberal government. There is a lot to be learned from previous strikes while also being aware of present circumstances. The course objectives are:

 To have a general understanding of the strike process

 To build support for the negotiating committee

 To develop communication strategies for mobilization and involvement of the membership

 To develop ways to involve the community and allies.

 To prepare for the administration and execution of local strike activity

*Note this course is for a member of the Local Executive Committee or the appointed Strike Coordinator. 

read more here

On the morning of Monday, February 26^th, just as the SSD restructure was commencing at the North Vancouver Delivery Depot (Harbour), workers at the Capilano Delivery Centre gathered outside their depot to make our message clear to the corporation: SSD is not a working condition we are willing to accept! This was a grassroots solidarity demonstration organized by and for the workers, highlighting the fact that Canada Post has not and never has had any real intention of implementing the Deerfoot Model anywhere else in the country since plowing ahead with SSD restructures nationwide.

Thank you to all the workers at Capilano Delivery Centre for standing against SSD!

In Solidarity,

Jamie McCurrach, 1st Vice President

injuries is described as a painful condition that affects many areas of the body. Muscles, tendons, joints and nerves in the neck, chest, shoulders, arms and hands and the back.

The nature of our Job at Canada Post requires the continuous repetition of movements that are a major contributing factor of Reparative Strain Injuries. Pushing, pulling, gripping, holding, lifting, reaching and twisting as well as awkward body postures and also fixed body positions increase the risk.

*Canadian Center for Occupational Health and safety (CCOHS)

What are the Symptoms?

• PAIN!
• Joint stiffness
• Muscle tightness
• Redness and swelling of the area
• Numbness or pins and needles
• Skin colour changes and decreased sweating of the hands

read more here

 Executive Committee:

1^st Vice President

Joseph Henderson McCance

Jamie McCurrach

Secretary Treasurer

Kevin Biggs

Enrique Silvano

Health & Safety Director

Adrian Chow

Robyn Mann

John Tweed

Executive Shop Steward Internal PPC/Wickets Shift 2

Neerja Bhatara

Sukhwinder (Tony) Phunal

                                                      Nominated and Acclaimed

                                                              Part Time Officers:

3^rd Vice President

Bryan Schuck

Table officers:

Education Director

Michael Seney

Organizing Director

Kat Poch

Executive Shop Steward Internal PPC/PIFF/Wickets Shift 3

Helen De Guzman

Executive Shop Steward External LC (2 positions)

Martin Kosik

Lisa Quattrocchi

 Executive Shop Steward External MSC

Surinder Kumar

The schedule for the 2024 annual election will be presented in a future bulletin. Congratulations to those acclaimed to a position and good luck to those nominated.

In Solidarity, 

Anju Parmar, President

Josiah Henson, spiritual leader and author, was born into enslavement in Maryland, USA. He escaped to Dresden, Upper Canada and founded The Dawn Settlement – a place for enslavement refugees to obtain self-sufficiency. In 1842, he purchased 200 acres of land and opened the British-American Institute, one of Canada’s first trade-labour schools.

Sleeping Car Porters | Africville Genealogical Society

Labour unions originally barred Black workers from taking membership, therefore they created their own. In 1917, John A. Robinson, J.W. Barber, B.F. Jones and P. White, Black porters based in Winnipeg, formed the Order of Sleeping Car Porters (OSCP), the first Black railway union in North America.

Canadian Brotherhood of Railway Employees

In 1919, the Order of Sleeping Car Porters, Canada’s first Black labour union, joined the Canadian Brotherhood of Railway Employees (CBRE), forcing them to remove the “Whites-only” clause from its constitution

Carrie Best

Carrie Best was co-founder of The Clarion, one of the first newspapers in Canada to be owned and published by Black Canadians. She was an avid human rights activist and used her newspaper to speak out about Black rights. In 1941, her and son James Calbert Best (who would later help found PSAC) purchased a ticket at the Roseland Theatre and would sit in the “whites only” section in protest. When they were asked to leave and refused, police were called and she was charged with disturbing the peace. She would take legal action against the theatre and later on would use The Clarion to help publicize the same treatment given to Viola Desmond 5 years later.

Stanley Grizzle

In the 1940s, labour activist Stanley Grizzle, a local president of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, fought for the right for porters to have name cards so white passengers would stop calling the mainly Black porters “George” or “boy”. He also pushed the Canadian Pacific Railway to open management ranks to Black workers. Grizzle went on to become a public service worker, politician, citizenship judge, and recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, who fought against anti-Black racism

read more here

Our Contract has expired on January 31^st, 2024. While CUPW is attempting to negotiate a new one and hoping the employer will come to the table in a good faith, there are never any guarantees. We all know this round of negotiations will not be easy and we all need to take part in one way or other. While our experienced negotiation committee will be working hard on the behalf of the membership, members should be looking at their savings in preparation of possible strike.

There are some other things that can be done to help ensure that we get decent Collective Agreement:

-Let management know that you want this round settled with a fair contract negotiated in good faith.

-Take an interest in the progress of negotiations. You can see the latest information on both the National and Local websites.

-Come to the meetings and stay informed.

-Volunteer for one of the multitude of tasks that has to be done to prepare for a possible strike.

-Plan a black T Shirt day.

-Plan a potluck in your section or station and have a conversation among members about strike preparation while enjoying the meal.

read more here

Thursday February 22^nd at 7pm

Italian Cultural Centre

3075 Slocan Street, Vancouver BC

AGENDA FOR THE February GMM:

1. Land Acknowledgment
2. Reading of Truth and Reconciliation: Calls to Action
3. Reading of new members
4. Reading of the previous meeting’s minutes
5. Business arising out of the minutes
6. Financials
7. New Business
8. Nominations and elections:
   1. Balloting committee (1)
   2. Regional delegates Alternates (10)
9. Executive Committee Motions
10. Unfinished business
11. Correspondence
12. Executive and Committee Reports
13. Good and Welfare
14. Adjournment 

***ASL Interpreters have been confirmed for this meeting***

In Solidarity 

Anju Parmar, President

read more here

Much like my favorite soap operas, Canada Posts seems to recycle the same story lines over and over again.   Instead of having a surprise twin sister, like in my stories, Canada Post is back to “the union agreed to this”.  I can definitively say, in my 14 years with the Corps this has happened less times than I have fingers.  There is not a lot that we agree on.  An example would be the infamous breaks on shift 3.  Except for the dark days of COVID 19, when it was health and safety related, the Local has NEVER agreed to split breaks.  In fact, we have been trying to fight them from day 1 of the conception of the PPC.  We have also NEVER agreed to the 21:00 break in ground.  We have filed numerous grievances and will continue to, unless Canada Post can produce the “binding arbitration” ruling they claim to have.

read more here

Incidents we have seen of these are supervisors calling out our members on the floor for not “pulling their weight”.  In one case we had the Energy draining supervisors telling some members on the floor that other members thought they were lazy.  Of course, this is a ploy Energy Vampires use to help divide us and gain power through our conflict.

We also see these Energy Vampires on the Collections and Delivery side.  Separate Sort from Delivery is a prime example! We often hear management telling us that those who have converted to SSD love it.  This is done to divide us and push through their agenda.  We all know SSD has a negative effect on all of us, and to try to sell it as anything other brings a rise out of us for them to feed off of. If carriers love SSD so much, wouldn’t they be transferring in to SSD depots instead of out?

read more here

The Deerfoot MOA – An alternative to SSD?

In Deerfoot, Alberta, a Separate Sort from Delivery restructure was announced using Canada Post’s favourite excuse – the lack of floor space. Workers put their collective minds together and came up with a solution to the floor space issue that enabled 4 workers to use one sortation case. Under the Deerfoot Model, 2 carriers on each wave share the case. One carrier sorts their manual mail in the morning for that day’s delivery, the other sorts their manual mail in the afternoon for the next day’s delivery, similar to the SSD model but still using the sortation case with all its benefits such as red dots, redirection cards and the ability to keep case strips updated with the route.

The MOA became part of the 2022 contract!

In 2022, the Corporation agreed – in writing – to examine the Deerfoot model before implementing any future SSD restructures. But not once, not anywhere else in Canada has the Deerfoot model even been considered! It appears that this, along with other empty promises such as financial services at postal outlets, was nothing more than window dressing to get us to agree to a contract at a time where other Unions were beginning to demand their fair share for working through an unprecedented global pandemic while watching inflation eat away at their purchasing power.

read more here

Register in advance for this meeting:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUlduigqzIoGNcsxTuAoaKxGNjwRyWWTX8m

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

 Registration will close on February 2^nd Friday at 12pm

The Vancouver Local is having a Human Rights Committee Meeting

Agenda for the meeting

• Electing Chair of the committee.
• Report from the National Human Rights Committee members.

If you have any specific agenda items to discuss at the committee meeting, please send it via     email at [email protected] .

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

on behalf of Local Human Rights committee

Sign language interpreter has been confirmed.

Saturday February 3^rd 1330hrs
Zoom Video/Phone Conference

Register in advance for this meeting:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIpfuCqqjkqHN1drXHphSxgJ8hrMUwzG0iP

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Registration will close at 1330hrs on Friday February 2^nd.

If you are a member of the Health and Safety committee or just interested in sharing concerns about your work floor or have ideas to share, please join us via Zoom Or If you have any specific agenda items to discuss at the committee meeting, please send it via email @ [email protected]  or [email protected]

In Solidarity,

John Tweed                                            Raylene Marshall

Health & Safety Director                 2nd Vice President

Sign Language Interpreters has been confirmed

Basic Shop Steward – February 8^th,9^th and 10^th

Thursday, Friday and Saturday (8 am to 4pm)

Basic Shop Steward course is 3-day course for Vancouver Local Members who are either interested in becoming Shop Stewards or want to learn more about their rights under the Collective Agreement. You will learn interview skills, facing management effectively, how to file a grievance and much more about the roles and tasks of a shop steward. This course is required prior to being elected as a Shop Steward. You MUST have attended at least one (1) General Membership Meeting in the past twelve (12) months, and be a member in good standing prior to the course application deadline.

Bar Charts – February 9^th

(Friday, 8 am to 4 pm)

Bar Charts are used by Group 2 to determine the number of reliefs needed to cover the average number of absences. You’ll learn about how to count absences, spot errors, and how the formulas are used to calculate the relief compliment. You MUST have attended at least one (1) General Membership Meeting in the past twelve (12) months, and be a member in good standing prior to the course application deadline.

038 Edit Book Course – February 10^th

(Saturday, 8 am to 4 pm)

Your edit book is the key to ensuring that your route is properly valued and that you are paid for all over-assessed activities in accordance with Appendix V of the Collective Agreement. You’ll learn about when Natural Walk Pattern does and does not apply, the difference between variable and non-variable time values, how to have your route properly measured and much, much more. This course is especially important for any depot facing an SSD restructure as the best way to preserve jobs is to preserve time values.

You do not need to have attended a General Membership Meeting to apply for this course. Priority will be given to Letter Carriers. There will be no lost wages paid as this course is held on a Saturday.

Please fill out the Vancouver Local Education application form legibly and in full. Must include your work location, shift, and days off. Partially completed or illegible applications will not be accepted.  WE DO NOT ACCEPT APPLICATIONS BY E-MAIL.

*These courses will be held in person*

Application Deadline: Thursday February 1st at Noon

Applications can be accepted by mail: CUPW Vancouver Local 109- 4238 Lozells Ave, Burnaby V5A 0C4, by fax (604)-685-4931, or, in person at the Union Office

In Solidarity,

Michael Seney

Education Director

Saturday January 27^th at 10am

The meeting will be held in person at:

CAPITAL HILL COMMUNITY HALL

361 Howard Ave, Burnaby

(corner of Howard and Hastings)

AGENDA FOR THE January GMM:

1. Land Acknowledgment
2. Reading of Truth and Reconciliation: Calls to Action
3. Reading of new members
4. Reading of the previous meeting’s minutes
5. Business arising out of the minutes
6. Financials
7. New Business
8. Nominations and elections:

1. External Executive Steward
2. MSC Route Evaluation (1)
3. Trustees (1)
4. Conflict Resolution (1) Alternates (2)
5. VDLC (1) Alternates (3)
6. Regional delegates (14) Alternates (10)

9.Executive Committee Motions

10.Unfinished business

11.Correspondence

12.Executive and Committee Reports

13.Good and Welfare

14.Adjournment

***ASL Interpreters have been confirmed for this meeting***

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President 

read here

Application Deadline: Thursday, February 15^th at Noon.

Nominations are now open for the following positions on the Local Executive Committee:

Full-Time Officers

1^st Vice President

3^rd Vice President

Secretary Treasurer

Table Officers

Education Director

Organizing Director

Health and Safety Director

*Executive Shop Stewards*

*Executive stewards must be nominated by a member of their own shift or work area in accordance with 5.1B of the Local By-laws*

PPC/PIF Internal #2 Shift/ Wickets/Group 1

PPC/PIF Internal #3 Shift/ Wickets/Group 1

Group 2 External MSC

Group 2 External Letter Carrier (2 Positions)

read more here

Nominations for Shop Stewards are now open. The deadline for nominations to be returned to the Union Hall is Thursday February 29, 2024 at noon.

Article 9.4(g) of the Vancouver Local By-Laws:

To be elected as a Shop Steward a nominee must have completed a Basic Shop Steward course and have attended at least 1 GMM in the 12 months prior to and inclusive of the close of nominations.

Stewards who were elected in the March 2023 Steward elections do not have to run in this election because they are only one (1) year into their two (2) year term.

read more here

read more here

The Urban Collective Agreement between Canada Post and CUPW expires on January 31^st, 2024. As always, the contract will remain in full force and effect past that date while negotiations are underway. The Union’s goal is to negotiate in a good faith, however, negotiations are a two-way street of give and take. The Union is not willing to give in on our key demands and we will not let the corporation take back our gains from past rounds of negotiations. These negotiations will determine the future of our wages and working conditions at Canada Post. During negotiations, the Union will be producing bulletins and information about progress on our demands and the developments at the bargaining table. Anything you hear outside of official communications is only a rumour and should not be taken as fact. Remember that our success at the bargaining table depends upon the support and solidarity of the membership.

CHRISTMAS CASUALS TAKE NOTE

Watch your pay stubs! Every year, Canada Post has incorrectly deducted union dues from the pay period that begins in December and ends in January, even if you didn’t actually work at any time in January. If this happens to you, please contact Secretary- Treasurer Kevin Biggs at (604) 685 6581 Extension 4  or [email protected]. Keep copies of your pay stubs, these will be necessary to get your refund. However, if you did work on any day in January, Union dues must be paid for that month.

THE VANCOUVER LOCAL CELEBRATES ONE YEAR AT OUR NEW OFFICES!!

On November 17^th, 2022, the Vancouver Local officially took possession of our new offices at #109 – 4238 Lozells Ave in Burnaby. Since then, we have nearly completed our renovations to build four new offices, including a private office for advocates working on grievances and WCB appeals. For decades, Vancouver Local members have wanted us to own a building instead of renting, and now we have a permanent home for members present and future. Thank you to everyone who has come to visit in the past year and we hope to see more members visit us in person soon!

TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF DURING PEAK SEASON

As the holiday season is upon us and members are working longer hours as the volumes increase, it’s important to look after your wellbeing at work. Working longer hours, or having a lack of sleep can cause increased stress, anxiety, and increased sleep deprivation. We urge everyone to drink lots of fluids, eat full proper, nutritious meals, and take care of your self during this festive season.

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON, AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

 LB/CUPE cupe 3338

“The Union agreed to ______”-   Most times, this means that we did not agree to whatever is being said. If they say this, ask them who in the Union agreed.

“The Union Consulted on this”- This one is tricky.  Chances are we may have consulted, but it does not mean that we agreed.  Most times we disagree after consultation.  Sometimes we have a compromise.  It is very rare that we are in full support of .

read more here

Click here for registration

The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

• Wear a white ribbon. 
• Observe a moment of silence at 11:00 am.
• Attend a vigil in your community

In  Solidarity,

Vancouver Local Executive 

In the past 4 years, the Vancouver Local has given away over $10,000.⁰⁰in our 50/50 draws!!

The summer 50/50 donated over $1600 to Seniors 411

Sales start December 4^th , the winner will be drawn at the CUPW Holiday Party (January 20^th, 2024)                    

read here

                             Join us in celebrating!

Snacks and Drinks!                           Games!

                                           Live Music!

50/50                                                     Door Prizes

read here

As a Local, especially coming up on negotiations with the employer, it is important that we support each other and weave a network amongst ourselves. Take this chance to be highlighted amongst our peers, and showcase your band or business!

We are looking for postie lead bands and businesses to participate in the CUPW Holiday party taking place on January 20^th, 2024 at Capital Hill Community Hall, 361 Howard Ave, Burnaby, BC V5B 3P7.

We are looking for 3 bands to perform throughout the night. Please send links to your bands’ socials to [email protected] 

read here

@ CLC WINTER SCHOOL

  WHEN: February 4 – 9, 2024

  WHERE: Harrison Hot Springs & Spa

100 Esplanade Avenue

Harrison Hot Springs, BC

Advance Shop Steward

This course gives experienced stewards an opportunity to assess their strengths and work on the areas they want to improve. Participants review grievance investigation basics and practice face-to-face communications, including meetings with management. Other topics include self-care, strategies for shop floor mobilization and recruiting new stewards, the duty of fair representation, the rights of temporary employees and OCRE’s, and the STDP.

Social Stewards

This course trains members to be social stewards. Social stewards are resource people who assist co-workers experiencing personal problems. They listen to members, help them identify their concerns and find solutions, and refer them to appropriate resources. This course familiarizes participants with a social steward’s role and responsibilities. Participants will explore ways to approach workplace problems, learn how to support members and how to gather and share information on the resources available to members.

These courses provide an opportunity for union activists to collectively analyze and work on the challenges involved in representing and mobilizing the membership.

The courses provide an opportunity for newer union activists to hone their skills and for long time leaders to reenergize.

read more here

8 A.M. – 4 P.M. (Thursday, Friday & Saturday)

*These courses will be held in person unless public health guidelines change. *

This 3-day course is for Vancouver Local Members who are either interested in becoming Shop Stewards or want to learn more about their rights under the Collective Agreement.

Course prerequisite: You MUST have attended at least one (1) General Membership Meeting in the past twelve (12) months, and be a member in good standing prior to the course application deadline.

Please fill out the Vancouver Local Education application form legibly and in full. Must include your work location, shift, and days off. Partially completed or illegible applications will not be accepted.

Application Deadline: September 22^nd Friday at Noon

Applications can be accepted by mail: CUPW Vancouver Local 109- 4238 Lozells Ave, Burnaby V5A 0C4, by fax (604)-685-4931, or, in person at the Union Office.

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President                                                                   Sr/CUPE-3338

After seeing the last mini bid and the drastic cuts made to shift 2 the only reasonable explanation is that Canada Post thinks we are all vampires! This seems to be the only reasonable explanation to the change in processing mail. There have been many studies done that prove night work has detrimental effects on human mental and physical health. Canada Post even acknowledges that more injuries occur on shift 1 than any other shift. With Canada Post’s acknowledgement of this the clear reasoning for this change is we have been mistaken for vampires.

Here are some facts regarding the risk to HUMANS working night shift.

CCOH – Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety defines Shift work as “any hours worked outside of “normal” daylight hours”. The CCOH has identified these health risks related to working afternoon/night shifts:

• elevated risk of several types of cancer
• increased risk of heart disease
• higher risk of pre-term delivery
• gastrointestinal disorders
• mental health problems
• Night shift workers have a higher risk of workplace injury (source: https://www.ccohs.ca/newsletters/hsreport/issues)

A Document provided by The Workers Health And Safety Center mirrors the CCOH findings in related night work health risks but also adds:

• increased risk of stroke.
• reproductive health problems including excess risk of miscarriages, pre-term delivery, low birth weight and delayed fetal development.
• gastrointestinal disorders including ulcers and heartburn.
• excess diabetes.
• Violence or its potential is also a concern for shift workers who work alone or in other vulnerable situations.
• Increased stress, anxiety, and depression

Shift-Work-WHSC-Resource-Line.aspx

 And here are some vampire facts:

-avoid sunlight

-have no families or loved ones

-stay up all night, sleep during the day

Source: Vampiric Council

Clearly, with Canada Posts “Make it Safe, Make it Home” they have mistakenly thought we were vampires not humans!  The constant denial of night workers leave is also leads us to believe further that CPC believes we are vampires, since vampires are nocturnal.

CUPW understands that some night work is necessary for the business.  But CUPW will always fight to maintain day shift positions. Canada Post needs to find a better way to process mail, which includes processing more of the mail on day shift.

In Solidarity,

Raylene Marshall

2nd Vice President

Bryan Schuck

3rd Vice President

July 11, 2023

CUPW is currently seeking worker organizers in each region to assist with CUPW external organizing campaigns. The position will begin September 2023 and will be up for renewal every six months pending the direction of the campaign. The successful candidate will be tasked with collaborating with the 3rd National Vice-President, their Regional office, and the Locals involved in the campaign.

Responsibilities

• Work with CUPW locals and regions in the development and coordination of the organizing campaign as determined by the National Executive Board;
• Identify, assess, and recommend organizing targets, in collaboration with the CUPW organizing department;
• Worksite mapping and contact list building;
• Maintain database of workers;
• Develop organizing campaign plans – including objectives and timelines;
• Conduct outreach to workers – identify and train workplace leaders;
• Prepare regular reports on campaigns.

read more here

Saturday, May 27^th at 10am

 The meeting will be held in person at:

The Maritime Labour Centre

1880 Triumph Street

(Parking available in the rear off Pandora Street)

AGENDA FOR THE MAY GMM:

1. Land Acknowledgment
2. Reading of Truth and Reconciliation: Calls to Action
3. Reading of new members
4. Reading of the previous meeting’s minutes
5. Business arising out of the minutes
6. Financials (3 months)
7. New Business
8. Nominations and elections:

• National Convention Delegate Alternates (2)
• Education Committee (8)
• Organization Committee (8)
• Publications Committee (8)

read more

 Thursday, April 20^th, 2023 6:30 PM

Zoom Video/Phone Conference

You must register in advance for this meeting.

Registration Deadline: Wednesday, April 19^th at 6:30 pm

Link to register:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYrde6hrDkvGde1ypjByiiYZQ04DDGJFTs6

Or:

www.cupwvancouver.org and click the link on this bulletin.

 *Due to the information needed to be sent to participants, and the time required to authenticate registrations, all participants must register by the deadline above.

 *Admission to the meeting will close fifteen (15) minutes from the start of the meeting.

 This meeting is to debate and vote on contract demands resolutions. All contract demands that are approved at this meeting will be brought to the Regional Demands conference on June 9^th – 11^th, 2023.

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President

**Sign Language Interpreters are confirmed**

lb/CUPE-3338

    Saturday March 25th at 10am

    Meeting will be in person and it will be held at

    Maritime Labour Centre 1880 Triumph Street 

                              (Old Union Hall)           

AGENDA FOR THE MARCH GMM:

1. Land Acknowledgment
2. Reading of Truth and Reconciliation: Calls to Action
3. Reading of new members
4. Reading of the previous meeting’s minutes
5. Business arising out of the minutes
6. Financials (3 months)
7. New Business
8. Nominations and elections:

             1)  National Convention Delegate Alternate (10)

             2) MSC Route Measurement (1)

             3) By Laws (1)

             4)  Conflict Resolution Committee Alternate (1)

             5) VDLC (5) Alternate (4)

             6) Health & Safety committee minimum (9)

             7) Balloting committee (8)

             8)  Education Committee (8)

             9)  Organization Committee (8)

            10)  Publications Committee (8)

9) Executive Committee Motions

10) Unfinished business

11) Correspondence

12) Executive and Committee Reports

14) Good and Welfare

15) Adjournment

In Solidarity,

Anju Parmar, President     

*Sign language Interpreters are  confirmed*