By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
On Dec. 4, nearly 30 postal workers from the Eastern Townships gathered outside Compton-Stanstead MP Marie-Claude Bibeau’s Lennoxville office, holding signs and sounding noisemakers. The demonstration aimed to seek support in their ongoing contract negotiations with Canada Post.
“We’re here trying to meet with the MP,” said Patrick Bleau, president of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers’ (CUPW) local chapter, on location. Bleau expressed hope that Bibeau would pressure Canada Post to finalize a new collective agreement.
Key concerns for the union include proposed pension changes, unequal pay scales for new employees, and health and safety issues linked to recent technological updates. “Right now, Canada Post is stalling negotiations,” Bleau stated. He cited the introduction of new mail delivery technology, such as radar-equipped systems, as risks making work conditions unsafe for carriers. “These updates are far too dangerous for letter carriers,” he insisted, referring to the weight of the new equipment.
The protesters planned to persist in seeking a meeting with Bibeau, even if she was unavailable that morning. “We would have liked to speak with her directly, but there’s been no response,” said Bleau. “If we can’t talk to her today, we’ll be back.”
Postal workers in attendance came from Sherbrooke and surrounding areas, representing communities across the Estrie region. Their demands reflect broader national concerns within CUPW, emphasizing the need for fair treatment and safer working conditions.
On Nov. 15, approximately 55,000 Canada Post workers initiated a nationwide strike after failing to reach a pay agreement with the corporation. The strike has disrupted mail and parcel deliveries across the country, affecting businesses and individuals, especially during the busy holiday season.
Negotiations have been challenging. Canada Post presented a comprehensive framework to reignite talks and reach agreements on Dec. 1. However, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers has filed an Unfair Labour Practice complaint against layoffs imposed by Canada Post on striking workers, viewing them as intimidation tactics. The federal government has appointed a special mediator to assist in resolving the dispute, emphasizing the necessity for both parties to reach an agreement.
