Canada Post workers in Regina, Saskatoon hit the picket line
Union representing 55,000 workers says workers want a fair contract
Canada Post workers in Regina and Saskatoon are part of the nationwide strike against the federal Crown corporation that started early Friday.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), which represents 55,000 postal employees across the country, and Canada Post have failed to reach a negotiated agreement in the year since talks began.
Hundreds of workers in Regina hit the picket line outside the Canada Post office on Saskatchewan Drive, right beside Casino Regina.
"We're all out on strike today looking for a fair bargain, collective agreement," said Jeremy Thomas, president of CUPW Local 820.
Thomas said the workers were excited to be there and engaged in their purpose.
"We are fighting for fair benefits and fair wages," Thomas said. "Our wages have not gone up with the cost of inflation."
Workers in Saskatoon were also out this morning, walking the picket line outside a Canada Post plant on 51st Street. They are demanding the same change.
"We've been held back for many years, many rounds of negotiations," Thomas said.
Canada Post offered an 11.5 per cent increase over four years, while the union is asking for double that. The union is also asking for improved retirement benefits, and better health and safety conditions.
Thomas said he is hoping the federal government does not legislate workers back to work.
"We don't want an arbitrator [that's] appointed by the federal government for a federal Crown corporation, because ultimately they [will] side with Canada Post."
In a news release, Canada Post said that customers should expect delays as a result of the strike.
"Mail and parcels will not be processed or delivered for the duration of the national strike, and some post offices will be closed," the news release states. "No new items will be accepted until the national disruption is over."
Thomas said workers understand the concerns of Canadians, especially with Black Friday and holiday season just around the corner.
"CUPW is in full support of delivering your mail. We just have to fight for our rights and we hope that this is resolved just as soon as they do."
Province and city contingency plans
The Saskatchewan government said in a news release that its Crown corporations and organizations have implemented contingency plans due to the postal strike.
It said the best way to ensure payments are not disrupted is to switch to direct deposit.
The Ministry of Social Services said it's working on a plan that will make alternate payment deliveries to clients who use mail to receive benefits.
As for drug plans and extended benefits, the Ministry of Health recommends emailing program applications, documents or receipts for refund to DPEB@health.gov.sk.ca. People can also drop off items to the deposit box or front desk at the T.C. Douglas Building in Regina.
The province said incoming and outgoing mail delays will impact health card applications, and orders for birth, death and marriage certificates. It recommends going to the eHealth website for more options.
A full list, including plans for crop insurance, filing taxes, tax refunds and more can be found on ithe province's website.
Saskatoon said it's business as usual for the city, but strongly encouraged residents to use alternative payment options like online banking, in-person, or using deposit boxes for utilities, property tax notices, parking tickets and pet licences.
The City of Regina said it offers multiple methods of payment for services, whether by phone, online or in-person, but that residents can call Service Regina at 306-777-7000 for help.