Postal Workers’ Rotating Strikes Maintain Pressure in Peace Region
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) local chapter 738 president, Babe Seguin, told Energeticcity.ca that postal workers in the Peace region continue their efforts to raise awareness about potential rural post office closures. Since September, the workers have been on daily strike action but have now transitioned to rotating strikes to keep the issue in focus.
At-Risk Post Offices
- Altona
- Buick
- Cecil Lake
- Charlie Lake
- Clayhurst
- Montney
- Prespatou
- Rose Prairie
- Tumbler Ridge
- Retail offices in Dawson Creek
- Retail offices in Fort St. John
These offices were previously protected by a moratorium that may be lifted due to proposed cutbacks in mail services.
Canada Post’s Response and Government Directive
Canada Post’s media department states that Minister Lightbound has given the service 45 days to present a plan to implement measures proposed by the federal government in early September. The plan includes:
- Prioritizing service
- Proceeding thoughtfully to minimize public impact
- Treating employees with respect
- Keeping the public informed
- Adapting flexibly to the changing needs of Canadians using postal services
A statement from Canada Post said the “plan is being finalized and will be shared as directed with the government in advance of the deadline.”
Union Perspective
Babe Seguin affirms that shifting from daily strikes to rotating strikes has not lessened the strength of their message regarding the threat to rural postal offices.
Author’s Summary
The rotating strikes by postal workers effectively highlight concerns over rural office closures while Canada Post works on a government-mandated plan to protect service and staff.