Postal Workers Strike Raises Awareness of 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 since September have helped bring attention to the threat of closures affecting rural post offices.
Shift from Daily to Rotating Strikes
The Peace region postal workers initially conducted daily strikes but have now moved to rotating strikes. Seguin emphasized that this change has not weakened their message.
Post Offices at Risk
- Altona
- Buick
- Cecil Lake
- Charlie Lake
- Clayhurst
- Montney
- Prespatou
- Rose Prairie
- Tumbler Ridge
- Retail offices in Dawson Creek
- Retail offices in Fort St. John
These offices were previously protected by a moratorium, which may be lifted following proposed mail service cutbacks.
Canada Post Response
Lightbound has provided 45 days to outline a plan implementing federal government measures aimed at prioritizing service, minimizing public impact, respecting employees, keeping the public informed, and being flexible to the changing needs of Canadians.
These measures were introduced by the federal government in early September, with an emphasis on thoughtful execution to balance service and workforce concerns.
Summary
The ongoing postal worker strikes focus public attention on rural post office closures, while Canada Post plans measured steps to address service challenges and maintain communication with both employees and communities.