Rotating Strikes Continue to Amplify Postal Workers’ Message
The shift from daily job action to rotating strikes has not weakened the message of postal workers in the Peace region, according to the local union president.
Ongoing Strikes to Raise Awareness
Babe Seguin, president of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) local chapter 738, told Energeticcity.ca that postal workers had been on daily strikes since September. The strikes aimed to “bring awareness” to the threat of potential rural post office closures. The action has now moved to a rotating strike system.
At-Risk Postal Offices
- 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 which may now be lifted following proposed mail service cutbacks.
Canada Post’s Response
According to Canada Post’s media department, Minister Lightbound has given the postal service 45 days to develop a plan addressing federal government measures introduced in early September. The plan includes priorities such as:
- Prioritizing service
- Minimizing public impact through thoughtful implementation
- Treating employees with respect
- Keeping the public informed
- Being flexible to adjust to the changing needs of the Canadian public
"The plan is being finalized and will be shared as directed with the government in advance of the deadline."
Union Perspective
Seguin emphasized that despite moving to rotating strikes, the core message of the postal workers remains clear and strong.
Summary
This ongoing labour action highlights postal workers’ concerns over rural office closures while Canada Post works to devise a plan balancing service and public impact.
"The move from daily job action shifting to rotating strikes hasn’t dimmed Peace region postal workers’ message."
Author's summary: The rotating postal strikes in the Peace region maintain strong pressure against rural office closures as Canada Post prepares a federal response plan.