Letter to the Editor

After nine months of negotiations, 60 days of conciliation and the exchange of global offers, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) and Canada Post remain far apart on negotiating collective agreements for both the Urban and Rural and Suburban Mail Carriers (RSMC).

When the conciliation period ended September 4, the Canada Labour Code provided for a three- week “cooling off” period before both parties obtain the right to strike or lockout. This “cooling off” period expired at 12:01 a.m. on September 26, when both parties are then in a position to take further action. Under the provisions of the Canada Labour Code, both Canada Post and the CUPW are required to issue 72-hour lock-out or strike notices before the situation can escalate. This may or may not happen immediately, depending on the state of negotiations. It should be noted that as of 12:01 a.m. September 26, the Canada Labour Code gives Canada Post the right to change our conditions of employment.

The CUPW recognizes the uncertainty a possible postal service disruption may have on the Canadian public, yet we have been without a collective agreement since January 31. We want fair, negotiated collective agreements for both urban and rural postal workers.

The CUPW does not want to strike but we will if a negotiated settlement cannot be reached. We are ready.

The Cranbrook Local would like to thank the public for its’ continued support and understanding during these times of intense negotiations.

Brent Bush, President,

CUPW Cranbrook Local 728

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