OTTAWA, ONTARIO, MAY 20, 2011—The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada’s Labour Minister, emphasized the importance for Canada Post Corporation and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) – Urban Operations Unit to reach an agreement.
“The Government of Canada is committed to supporting unions and employers, while advancing stable labour relations,” said Minister Raitt. “Canadians want a good postal service. I urge both parties to promptly come to an agreement with the assistance from the federal mediator,” Minister Raitt added.
The collective agreement covering a unit of approximately 50 000 postal workers expired on January 31, 2011. Negotiations between Canada Post and CUPW – Urban Operations Unit started in October 2010, but despite important progress, are not yet concluded. The parties will acquire the legal right to strike or lockout on May 25, 2011, at 12:01 a.m.
The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service was established to provide dispute resolution and dispute prevention assistance to trade unions and employers under the jurisdiction of the Canada Labour Code.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Ashley Kelahear
Special Assistant, Media Relations
Office of Minister Raitt
819-953-5646
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and
Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
