Workers, Canada Post continue negotiations to avert possible strike

The union representing urban-based workers at Canada Post was to present a new offer Sunday that it hoped would address the remaining outstanding issues as a strike deadline loomed.

“We believe this offer should be the basis of a settlement,” the Canadian Union of Postal Workers said in an email updating the status of the talks.

The two sides expected to negotiate throughout the weekend to try to hammer out a deal. The two sides are in a legal position for a strike or lockout on Wednesday.

An earlier agreement covering some 50,000 employees expired Jan. 31, and talks on a new deal began last fall.

“Canada Post remains committed to reaching a negotiated settlement that will protect Canada’s postal service, minimize future postal rate increases and improve the wages of our employees,” said spokesperson Jon Hamilton.

Major issues include wages and benefits, staffing levels and working conditions.

On Friday, federal Labour Minister Lisa Raitt urged both sides to reach a deal to avert a potential disruption of the country’s mail service.

Meanwhile, Canada Post has reached an agreement with the union to bring in volunteer postal workers to deliver cheques to pensioners and those on social assistance should a labour disruption occur.

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