Local CUPW 812 President says socio-economic cheques to be delivered regardless of strike or lockout

Postal workers across the north could walk off the job as early as Friday after the union issued its 72-hour strike notice to Canada Post.

Its 204 members located in Prince George, Vanderhoof, Fraser Lake, Burns Lake and Mackenzie could find themselves on the picket line…..but the union hasn’t yet decided whether to take that action immediately.

CUPW Local 812 President, Rick Harris told Vista Radio mail carriers and other workers are doing their best to navigate through this uncertainty.

“We all realize that we don’t have a lot of power in this as far as the local is concerned on both sides of the fence. I think we all realize that we have to go back and work together when this is all settled and all said and done.”

Harris noted all socio-economic cheques will continue to be delivered regardless if their is a strike or lockout between Canada Post and the union.

In addition, signs will be posted at the Canada Post building on 5th Avenue in Prince George as well as other local offices in Vanderhoof, Burns Lake, Fraser Lake and Mackenzie for anyone who would prefer to pick up their money.

Harris stated negotiations have been ongoing since November of 2023 – however, the union says it didn’t receive its first offer until 10 months later.

“CPC is being a little disingenuous by saying they want to negotiate a contract but we have been in negotiations since November of last year. I guess negotiators are at the point where they have done the best they can and if they can’t do any more than that is the next step.”

In an updated release, Canada Posted noted parcel volumes have declined by 28% compared to the same week last year in what is usually a busy time of year.

In addition, the company noted it’s rapidly falling behind in a highly competitive, customer-focused parcel delivery market. In the first half of 2024, Canada Post recorded a loss from operations of $490 million. Since 2018, the Corporation has lost more than $3 billion. 

Canada Post stated a labour disruption would affect the millions of Canadians and businesses who rely on the postal service, and deepen the company’s already serious financial situation.