Canada Post workers reject final offers; negotiations remain stalled

The majority of Canada Post employees represented by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) have voted to reject the Crown corporation’s final offers to both the urban and rural and suburban mail carrier (RSMC) bargaining units.

The Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) administered the vote, the results of which leave negotiations between the two parties unresolved.

“While we are disappointed in the results, we want to thank employees for participating in the process,” Canada Post said in a statement. “This result does not lessen the urgent need to modernize and protect this vital national service. However, it does mean the uncertainty that has been significantly impacting our business – and the many Canadians and Canadian businesses who depend on Canada Post – will continue. We are evaluating our next steps.”

CUPW said the outcome affirms that Canada Post’s proposals were insufficient.

“These offers don’t cut it,” the union said. “Canada Post must now recognize that the only way forward is to negotiate ratifiable collective agreements that meet postal workers’ needs.”

CUPW added that its negotiators are ready to return to the bargaining table and called on the federal government to stay out of the process, rejecting any potential return-to-work legislation or forced votes. A national overtime ban by postal workers remains in effect.