Negotiations updates

Canadian Union of Postal Workers requests conciliators in filing notices of dispute with the Minister of Labour

Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) have been negotiating since November 2023 to reach new collective agreements. Today, CUPW filed notices of dispute with the federal Minister of Labour, asking for conciliators to help the parties reach new collective agreements.

While this official step represents an impasse in negotiations, it provides an extended timeline for the parties to continue negotiating with the help of a neutral conciliator. Under the Canada Labour Code, a labour disruption cannot happen for at least three months, as explained below. 

Operations continue as normal

We recognize that customers are relying on us, and we don’t take this responsibility lightly. We also understand their need for certainty when planning for the holiday season.

Our business operations continue as normal, and we will update customers on new developments as quickly as we can.

We also remain committed to working collaboratively with CUPW, with the goal of reaching negotiated agreements and avoiding any labour disruption.

No labour disruption can occur during conciliation

The process for requesting conciliation assistance through the Minister of Labour is established by the Canada Labour Code.

Once a notice of dispute is filed:

• The Minister is required to appoint a conciliator within 15 days.
• Once the conciliator is appointed, the parties enter a conciliation period typically lasting at least 60 days. The conciliation period can be extended if the parties agree.
• After the conciliation period, if there is still no agreement, a 21-day cooling-off period follows.
• Only after the cooling-off period would either party be in a position to initiate a labour disruption (72-hour advance notice must first be given).
• Negotiations can continue throughout this entire process.

Our commitment to customers

Our commitment to our customers is stronger than ever – and we deeply value the trust that they put in us to deliver for their business. We will continue to keep customers informed throughout the negotiations process.

We understand that seasonal planning is done months in advance. If there is a strong possibility of a labour disruption, we’re committed to letting customers know as quickly as possible. We will work closely with our customers to prepare and account for their business needs.  

Stay up to date

Continue to check our website to get updates and stay informed with the latest information on negotiations.