Local postal workers are back to work after Friday’s strike.
Canada post is going on rotating strikes while contract deals are being sorted out. CUPW Local 624 President John Cameron says the workers are fighting for a few more rights within the contracts including improvements in overtime pay, gender equality, as well as health and safety. “We are overburdened, we’re facing staffing shortages, our parcel volume hands aren’t able to keep up. This has people overwhelmed at times, tired and no work life balance.”
Cameron says the health and safety portions of the contract are one of the biggest concerns for employees. “We just had a report in that states our injury rate is five times greater than that of all the federal sectors and that is very concerning and alarming and needs to be fixed.”
He adds that the local Canada Post office is unsure if it will go back on strike, but for now, mail will be delivered as usual.
As of now, CUPW National President Mike Palecek, Canada Post Interim President Jessica McDonald and members of their negotiating teams are meeting in Ottawa through a mediator selected by the government.