Postal Workers Strike Sends Clear Message, Says Union President
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) local chapter 738 president, Babe Seguin, told Energeticcity.ca that shifting from daily strikes to rotating strikes has not weakened the message of postal workers in the Peace region.
Strike Actions and Purpose
Since September, postal workers in the area have engaged in daily job actions to raise awareness about potential closures of rural post offices. They have now moved to rotating strikes.
At-Risk Post Offices
- Altona
- Buick
- Cecil Lake
- Charlie Lake
- Clayhurst
- Montney
- Prespatou
- Rose Prairie
- Tumbler Ridge
- Retail offices in Dawson Creek and Fort St. John
These offices, previously protected by a moratorium, now face possible closure following proposed cutbacks to mail services.
Canada Post’s Response
Canada Post’s media department noted that Minister Lightbound has given the service 45 days to present a plan addressing federal government measures introduced in early September.
The plan includes prioritizing service, minimizing public impact, treating employees respectfully, keeping the public informed, and maintaining flexibility to meet the “revolving needs” of Canadians using postal services.
According to Canada Post, the plan is being finalized and will be shared as directed with the government in advance of the deadline.
Summary
The ongoing strike actions highlight postal workers’ concerns about rural office closures, prompting Canada Post to develop a plan balancing service priorities and public impact.