The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) says it has submitted new proposals to Canada Post in an effort to resolve a dispute that has dragged on for more than 18 months.
The union, which represents about 53,000 employees, confirmed Wednesday it has made “global offers” that include additional wage increases and scheduling changes to improve work-life balance. CUPW also said its plan provides practical ways for Canada Post to expand services and grow revenue while ensuring postal workers are recognized for their role in maintaining an essential public service.
The latest move comes weeks after postal workers decisively rejected what Canada Post described as its “best and final offers” in a government-imposed vote. The Crown corporation had proposed wage increases of 13.59 per cent over four years, including a six per cent hike in the first year — a figure the union says falls short of expectations.
CUPW’s counter-proposals include cost-of-living adjustments, expanded use of corporate vehicles for mail carriers, and reducing reliance on temporary workers without stable schedules or benefits. The union also wants existing employees to be allowed to work weekends, with time off during the week, rather than Canada Post’s plan to create new part-time weekend positions.
In addition, CUPW has pitched ideas to diversify Canada Post’s services, including wellness checks for seniors and postal banking. The union has voiced concerns about the company’s “load levelling” and “dynamic routing” initiatives, arguing they undermine seniority rights and give too much authority to supervisors.
Canada Post acknowledged receiving the new proposals and said it is reviewing them. “Canada Post is committed to reaching new collective agreements through the bargaining process,” spokesperson Lisa Liu said in a statement.
National president Jan Simpson said the Air Canada strike proved that the strongest agreements come from bargaining, not imposed settlements. “CUPW is focused on ensuring good, stable jobs for all postal workers and strengthening the public post office,” she said.
Further talks are scheduled for August 22 and 25 with the assistance of federal mediators.