Canada Post Corporation Rejects CUPW’s Offer to Suspend the Strike

For Immediate Release

In response to today’s request from Labour Minister Lisa Raitt, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers agreed to suspend strike activity. The union’s only condition was that the terms of its collective agreement would be reinstated.

In 1991, when CUPW suspended its strike action to assist mediation efforts, Canada Post agreed to reinstate the union’s collective agreement.

At 6 PM this evening, Canada Post’s management rejected the union’s offer.

“This behaviour on the part of Canada Post Corporation is totally unacceptable,” said Denis Lemelin, CUPW National President and chief negotiator. “We are showing that we are willing to suspend our strike in good faith and with goodwill, as the Minister requested. Once again, Canada Post is rejecting any of our efforts to resolve the issues.”

As a result of Canada Post’s rejection, the union will continue its strike action in an effort to force Canada Post to negotiate. This weekend, postal workers in Red Deer, Alberta, are on the picket line.

Negotiations meetings are scheduled for this evening and will continue over the weekend.

For more information, please contact Aalya Ahmad,             613-327-1177      .