The federal government has intervened to resolve the Canada Post strike, which has affected thousands of workers and impacted many small businesses and non-profit organizations. Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon announced on December 13, 2024, the government would send the dispute between Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) to the Canada Industrial Relations Board for resolution.
Deborah Yedlin, president and CEO of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, labeled the announcement "long overdue." She expressed concern over the strike's toll on small businesses and not-for-profits, stating, "This is something that's hurt so many businesses, especially small businesses, and it's hurt so many not-for-profits and charities. This has been really, really tough for them to negotiate."
According to MacKinnon, if the Canada Industrial Relations Board determines there is no progress in negotiations, it will order the returning of the workers to their jobs under their existing collective agreements until May 22, 2025. This intervention could help ease pressure felt by organizations, which have struggled during the strike.
For charities like Inn from the Cold, which supports vulnerable families, the strike has led to significant fundraising challenges. Heather Morley, the charity's CEO, mentioned the organization relies heavily on donations, and with fundraising down by about 30%, she stressed the urgency of restoring postal services: "Bringing the money in is critically important for us to be able to help families... If the mail can start moving, that's very good for us," she told CBC News.
Charitable organizations are not alone; businesses across Canada have experienced disruptions due to increased shipping costs and delivery delays. For Jim Osborne, owner of the Scottish Shoppe, the timing of the strike has been particularly harsh, coming during the holiday season when sales typically peak. "Most of us have come through the COVID period, and just as we are getting back to normal... we were hit with this,” he lamented, anticipating the potential impact on his holiday sales.
The effects of the strike have mounted since it began on November 15, 2024. CUPW members, including those on the picket line, have expressed their frustrations toward the government's decision to intervene. Tanya Paré, vice-president of CUPW Local 854, stated, "We're going to do our best for our customers, but there's only so much we can do," as she continued to walk the picket line.
Workers have voiced their discontent with the intervention, considering it detrimental to their bargaining position. Paré described the government's action as deflational for negotiations, stating, "This is the worst time to get involved. When the government is going to intervene, there is no incentive to bargain any more." She outlined the struggles faced by workers, including falling behind on wages during the holiday season.
This intervention was met with resistance from CUPW members, who argued it undermines their rights to negotiate collectively. A CUPW spokesperson remarked this federal action is "an assault" on their rights, echoing sentiments from union members who feel the government is siding with corporate interests. "Labour just got a huge slap across the face by not being able to negotiate in good faith," added Paré, reflecting the views shared by many on the picket line.
On the other side of the table, Canada Post has maintained their commitment to negotiate. They stated, "We are prepared to fully participate... and comply with the minister's directive." They reiterated their desire to reach a settlement and move forward.
Despite the bleak outlook for many workers, some expressed cautious optimism. Kirk Gonnsen, another postal worker, acknowledged the mixed feelings within the workforce: "I think it is unfortunate... But I am happy people, my colleagues who are suffering, are going to be able to go back to work and earn some money." His perspective highlights the split emotions felt by many as they face the uncertainty of resolution and future negotiations.
It is clear the intervention by the federal government has significant ramifications for both workers and businesses as the holiday season approaches. With the Canada Post strike slated to continue, the outlook remains uncertain for those waiting for mail and packages. The situation underlines the delicate balance of workers' rights, corporate responsibilities, and governmental intervention as stakeholders navigate the complex dynamics of the postal service.
While all sides cling to hope for resolution, the future consequences of this intervention on labour negotiations and relationships between CUPW and Canada Post remain to be fully seen.
