Postal Workers' Strike Sends Clear Message, Says Union President
The shift from daily job action to rotating strikes has not weakened the message from postal workers in the Peace region, according to the local union president.
Ongoing Job Action to Highlight Rural Post Office Closures
Babe Seguin, president of Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) local chapter 738, told Energeticcity.ca that postal workers have been striking daily since September to raise awareness of potential closures of rural post offices. The protests have now switched to rotating strikes.
At-Risk Offices Across the Region
- Altona
- Buick
- Cecil Lake
- Charlie Lake
- Clayhurst
- Montney
- Prespatou
- Rose Prairie
- Tumbler Ridge
- Retail offices in Dawson Creek and Fort St. John
These offices were previously protected by a moratorium that may be lifted due to proposed cuts to mail services.
Canada Post's Response and Planned Measures
Canada Post's media department stated that the minister, Lightbound, has given the service 45 days to present a plan to implement federal government measures introduced in early September.
“The plan involves prioritizing service, proceeding thoughtfully to minimize public impact, treating employees with respect, keeping the public informed, and being flexible to adapt to the revolving needs of Canadians using the postal service.”
A Canada Post statement added, “The plan is being finalized and will be shared as directed with the government in advance of the deadline.”
Author's Summary
The Peace region postal workers continue striking to oppose rural post office closures while Canada Post prepares a government-mandated service plan aiming to balance public needs and employee respect.