Postal Workers Strike Highlights Rural Post Office Closures
Babe Seguin, president of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) local chapter 738, told Energeticcity.ca that postal workers’ strikes in the Peace region since September have raised awareness about possible closures of rural post offices.
Shift from Daily to Rotating Strikes
The postal workers initially held daily strikes to emphasize the issue but have since switched to rotating strikes. Seguin states this change has not weakened their message.
At-Risk Post Offices
- Altona
- Buick
- Cecil Lake
- Charlie Lake
- Clayhurst
- Montney
- Prespatou
- Rose Prairie
- Tumbler Ridge
- Retail offices in Dawson Creek and Fort St. John
These offices, previously protected by a moratorium, could face closures due to proposed cutbacks in mail services.
Canada Post’s Response
Canada Post’s media department informed that Minister Lightbound has given the service 45 days to present a plan addressing federal government measures announced in early September.
"The plan involves prioritizing service, proceeding thoughtfully to minimize public impact, treating employees with respect, keeping the public informed, and adapting flexibly to the revolving needs of Canadians using the postal service."
Author’s Summary
The ongoing postal strikes in the Peace region have successfully brought attention to the threat of rural post office closures amid planned service cutbacks and negotiations with Canada Post.