Postal workers strike ensures message was heard, Fort St. John union branch president says
The transition from daily demonstrations to rotating strikes has not weakened the resolve of Peace region postal employees, according to the local union president.
Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) Local 738 president Babe Seguin told Energeticcity.ca that employees had been participating in daily strikes since September to raise awareness of potential rural post office closures. The group has now moved to a rotating strike schedule.
Rural offices facing closure
Post offices in Altona, Buick, Cecil Lake, Charlie Lake, Clayhurst, Montney, Prespatou, Rose Prairie, and Tumbler Ridge, as well as retail branches in Dawson Creek and Fort St. John, are reportedly facing closure. These locations were previously safeguarded by a federal moratorium that may soon be lifted due to proposed service reductions.
Government response and planning
According to Canada Post’s media department, Minister Lightbound has given the postal service 45 days to develop a strategy addressing measures proposed by the federal government earlier in September. The company’s goals include maintaining service quality, minimizing public disruption, treating staff fairly, and adapting to the changing needs of Canadians.
A statement from Canada Post said the “plan is being finalized and will be shared as directed with the government in advance of the deadline.”
Summary
Rural postal workers in the Peace region continue their strikes to oppose potential closures, while Canada Post prepares a government-directed plan to maintain services and staff respect amid restructuring pressures.