Another postal strike looming?
Lynne Lavery
Local Journalism Initiative
Published in the Pontiac Journal on May 21, 2025.
OTTAWA – There could be another postal workers (CUPW) strike as early as May 22. The Federal government forced an end to the last strike in November/December 2024 and set up an Industrial Inquiry Commission (IIC) in hopes of finding a resolution. At that time, existing collective agreements between Canada Post and CUPW remained in effect until at least May 22, 2025.
The IIC held hearings in January and February with the union’s key issues focused on wages, job security, and working conditions, asking for a 24% wage increase over four years. Canada Post countered with an offer of 11.5%.
Canada Post has said they need to revamp their delivery system to be more competitive, stating, “The changes we’ve proposed are critical to better supporting customers long-term with more affordable, consistent and reliable service.”
Talks broke down in March but recently resumed with the help of a mediator. However, on May 13, Canada Post announced they had paused the talks after what was termed
“several days…without meaningful progress.” The union stated they were not in favour of the pause, and said, “It is reprehensible to keep workers and the public on edge when we should all be focused on negotiating agreements…”
On May 16, the IIC released their report stating, “The parties need to make changes to their collective agreements,” to include the flexible use of part-time employees, creating attractive jobs. It also stated the government should end the moratoriums on rural post office closures and community mailbox conversions, concluding, “The world has changed, and both Canada Post and CUPW must evolve and adapt.”
Unless a negotiated agreement is reached in the next few days, a strike could begin after May 22, marking the second major postal disruption in just six months.
In the case of a renewed strike, The Journal will be delivered via multiple drop-off locations in each municipality. Check your local businesses, depanneurs and town halls for a copy or
you can read the latest edition free online at www.pontiacjournal.com.
