Support rallies for Canada Post workers are scheduled across the nation today, as tensions escalate between the Crown corporation and the union, which represents approximately 55,000 employees. The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) has confirmed these rallies on its official website, stating that gatherings will occur in 13 cities, including major urban centers such as Halifax, Toronto, and Vancouver.
The CUPW has made it clear that its members are committed to fighting for the protection and expansion of the public postal service, in light of Canada Post's push for significant job and service reductions. Recently, Canada Post presented what it characterized as its "final offers" to the union, which included notable concessions such as an end to compulsory overtime and a signing bonus that could reach up to $1,000 for workers.
Despite the proposed concessions, Canada Post has maintained a contentious proposal that calls for a cumulative wage increase of 14 percent over the next four years, as well as the inclusion of part-time staff to work weekend shifts. This latter point has emerged as a major sticking issue in ongoing negotiations. The conflict has now reached an impasse, with Canada Post having engaged in several months of conciliation and mediation without resolution. In response to the deadlock, the corporation has requested that Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu mandate a union vote on their recent proposals.
As of May 23, 2025, the union has been in a legal position to strike but has chosen not to do so thus far, opting instead for an overtime ban as a form of protest. The financial backdrop to these labor disputes is significant, as Canada Post reported nearly $1.3 billion in operating losses for the previous year, complicating discussions regarding its future business model amid declining letter volumes.
A recent annual report disclosed that a month-long strike the previous fall—related to the same contract negotiations—resulted in losses of $208 million for the organization. The CUPW previously engaged in a 32-day strike towards the end of 2024 that disrupted mail delivery during the critical holiday shopping period, further highlighting the ongoing challenges facing Canada Post.
The situation continues to evolve as both sides navigate the complexities of labor negotiations and the pressing financial challenges that Canada Post faces. The outcome of the current rallies and negotiations remains to be seen as workers and supporters stand united in their demand for fair treatment and the protection of public postal services across Canada.
