Postal Workers’ Strike Highlights Rural Post Office Concerns
Babe Seguin, president of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) local chapter 738, told Energeticcity.ca that ongoing strikes since September have significantly raised awareness about potential rural post office closures.
Shift from Daily to Rotating Strikes
The union's local president explains that the Peace region postal workers initially engaged in daily job actions but have now moved to rotating strikes. This change has not weakened their overall message.
Post Offices at Risk
- Altona
- Buick
- Cecil Lake
- Charlie Lake
- Clayhurst
- Montney
- Prespatou
- Rose Prairie
- Tumbler Ridge
- Retail offices in Dawson Creek
- Retail offices in Fort St. John
These locations were protected under a moratorium, which risks being lifted amid proposed mail service cutbacks.
Canada Post’s Response
According to Canada Post’s media department, Minister Lightbound has given the postal service 45 days to develop a plan to implement federal government measures introduced in early September. The plan aims to:
- Prioritize service
- Minimize public impact
- Treat employees respectfully
- Keep the public informed
- Remain adaptable to Canadians’ changing postal needs
“It involves prioritizing service, proceeding thoughtfully so the impact on the public is minimized, treating employees with respect, keeping the public informed and being flexible in adjusting to the ‘revolving needs’ of the Canadian public with the postal service.”
— Canada Post media department
Summary
The rotating strikes by postal workers have made the threat to rural post offices clear, prompting Canada Post to plan carefully for service changes while balancing public and employee interests.