Postal Workers Strike Sends a Clear Message, Says Fort St. John Union Leader
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) Local 738 president, Babe Seguin, stated that postal workers’ strike actions since September have drawn attention to the potential closure of rural post offices in the Peace region.
“Our daily strikes were meant to bring awareness to the threat facing rural post offices,” said Babe Seguin, noting that these actions have now transitioned into rotating strikes.
According to Seguin, postal offices in Altona, Buick, Cecil Lake, Charlie Lake, Clayhurst, Montney, Prespatou, Rose Prairie, and Tumbler Ridge, along with retail outlets in Dawson Creek and Fort St. John, are reportedly under threat of closure. These locations had previously been protected by a moratorium, which may be lifted amid proposed reductions to mail service operations.
Government Oversight and Canada Post’s Response
The media department of Canada Post explained that the federal government has tasked Lightbound with overseeing the service’s response. The department has 45 days to present a detailed plan on how it will implement measures introduced earlier in September.
- Prioritizing essential postal services
- Minimizing the public impact of changes
- Treating employees with respect and transparency
- Keeping communities informed of all developments
- Adjusting flexibly to Canada’s evolving postal needs
Summary
The rotating strike by postal workers in the Peace region highlights their determination to safeguard rural post offices and ensure that government plans for mail service reform account for community needs.
Author’s Summary: The ongoing rotating strikes by CUPW workers emphasize their stance against potential rural postal closures and urge Canada Post to act transparently in upcoming reforms.