Jobs Minister Urges Canada Post and Workers to Finalize Contract Agreement

Canada’s Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu is urging both Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) to return to the bargaining table in an effort to reach terms for binding arbitration. In a statement released Wednesday via social media, Hajdu emphasized the importance of continued dialogue between the Crown corporation and the union, encouraging both parties to keep working toward a compromise outside of the arbitration process.

The minister acknowledged that arbitration is not the preferred path forward, suggesting that a resolution reached by the parties themselves would be most desirable. However, Hajdu warned that should negotiations fail to progress, an imposed settlement could become necessary. “Canadians expect both sides to resolve this impasse as soon as possible,” she noted, highlighting that federal mediators are available to assist in overcoming remaining obstacles.

Tensions between Canada Post and its workers heightened last week when Canada Post requested the minister to order a union vote on what it described as its “final offers.” At the same time, CUPW pushed for binding arbitration to settle outstanding issues—a proposal the employer subsequently rejected. The dispute comes on the heels of last fall’s month-long strike, after which the union was once again in a legal strike position as of May 23. Rather than resume full strike action, the union has imposed an overtime ban on its members while bargaining continues.

With critical mail and parcel services hanging in the balance, there is increased pressure on both sides to reach an agreement and avoid further disruptions. Minister Hajdu reiterated the government's willingness to support the negotiation process, stating that federal mediators are standing by to facilitate discussions if required. The outcome of these talks will be closely watched by the many Canadians who rely on consistent postal service for their daily lives and businesses.