After several weeks of disruption caused by a nationwide strike, Canada Post is ramping up efforts to clear the backlog of parcels and letters as Christmas approaches. Following the conclusion of the month-long strike by more than 55,000 postal workers, Canada Post announced on December 20, 2024, it has processed the parcels previously held up during the labor dispute and is now focused on ensuring timely deliveries.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) initiated the strike on November 15, citing demands for higher wages, enhanced pension plans, and improved health benefits. The strike continued until December 16 when the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) mandated workers to return to their jobs. “We expect to return to full-service levels and normal delivery standards in early January,” said Canada Post, highlighting the anticipated resolution of operational challenges.
With Christmas just days away, Canada Post is prioritizing deliveries to help Canadians receive their parcels on time. “We expect a significant portion of these items to be delivered before Christmas,” the postal service noted. To expedite the process, Canada Post is also making deliveries this weekend across select cities. The Crown corporation has opened its post offices, urging Canadians to drop off letters and parcels. Carded items held at local post offices due to the strike will be available for pick up for 15 days starting December 17.
Even with these efforts, Canada Post cautioned customers to expect delays. On-time service guarantees remain suspended, and the postal service noted potential delivery issues for both rural and urban areas. “For packages travelling longer distances, delays could be up to ten days,” Canada Post explained. Employees are reportedly working extra hours to address these delays, but the challenges of the backlog are significant.
The repercussions of the strike have left many wondering about the impact on their holiday plans. With anticipated delays extending beyond Christmas, many Canadians are encouraged to plan accordingly if they are sending or expecting parcels.
Looking forward, Canada Post anticipates returning to full operational capacity by early January. “With a large, integrated network... we expect to return to full-service levels...in early January,” the company stated, which will be pivotal for managing the surging demand for postal services as the New Year approaches.
Canada Post’s Santa Letter Program, which traditionally sees children’s letters to Santa prioritized for delivery, is also back on track. Letters mailed to Santa by December 23 will receive direct delivery, continuing the cherished tradition among families. Each year, Canada Post handles millions of letters as part of this program, reinforcing the seasonal importance of mail delivery.
While Canadians can expect a resumption of normal delivery operations, the strike and subsequent backlog have raised concerns about the potential for future disruptions. The CUPW has expressed disappointment with how the government intervened to end the strike, stating, “CUPW members have been directed to return to work... We will be challenging this decision.” This sentiment reflects the broader labor disputes within Canada’s postal services and the need for reform and satisfaction among workers.
For customers, the situation remains fluid, with Canada Post remaining transparent about the anticipated challenges. Amid the holiday rush, there is also concern for items sent through the international mail system, which will begin accepting new mail starting December 23, 2024, but will continue to work through its backlog.
With post offices closed on December 25 and 26, as well as January 1, many within the community are hoping for expedient resolutions to their mailing needs. Postal workers are committed to ensuring deliveries are made, even during weekends, demonstrating their dedication amid challenging circumstances.
The coming week will be busy for Canada Post as it works to assure Canadians their gifts and cards will arrive before the holiday festivities. The collective sigh of relief could be echoing across the country as news of successful deliveries fills inboxes and homes.
