The union representing some Canada Post workers in the country has given 72-hour strike notice after what it says is more than a year of negotiations.
“Today, your national executive board issued what is known as a ‘72-hour strike notice’ to Canada Post for both the RSMC and Urban bargaining units,” the union said in a news release. “This means that we will be legally allowed to strike as of Friday, November 15 if negotiated settlements have not been reached.”
It said that although strike notice was given, the national executive board had not decided whether job action would occur immediately. The union said that will be determined by “Canada Post’s actions at the bargaining table in the days to come.”
The union said there are several issues the two parties remain far apart on, including wages, paid time off, and protection from technology, among others.
About two weeks ago, union members voted 95 per cent in favour of strike action, and they have been in a legal position to call the strike since Nov. 3.
Canada Post released a statement as well, saying it had received the notice from CUPW.
“The notices indicate that CUPW intends to begin strike activity as of Friday, November 15 at 12:01 a.m. ET, unless the parties reach agreements before then,” the statement said. “Our operations continue as normal at this time.”
A strike could mean significant delays in mail and packages handled by Canada Post.
