Canada Post has officially resumed operations after a month-long strike, bringing relief to millions of Canadians awaiting mail and parcels. The strike, which began on November 15, 2024, left negotiations between Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) at a standstill, prompting government intervention.
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Federal Government Steps In Amid Negotiation Impasse
Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon tasked the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) with mediating the situation and determining whether an agreement was possible. However, after two days of hearings, the CIRB concluded that negotiations were at an impasse.
“After two days of hearings, the CIRB has issued its ruling confirming the parties are at an impasse,” stated Canada Post. As a result, the CIRB ordered all employees to return to work and mandated the resumption of postal operations at 8 a.m. local time on December 17, 2024.
Minister MacKinnon acknowledged the challenges, stating, “Both parties are unlikely to reach a deal by the end of the year.”
Canada Post Begins Ramping Up Operations
Canada Post has begun stabilizing its nationwide network, which includes processing plants, depots, and post offices. However, the corporation warns that it will take time to return to full operational capacity.
“With a large, integrated network of processing plants, depots, and post offices, stabilizing operations will take time, and the company asks Canadians for their patience,” Canada Post said in a statement.
Here’s what you need to know about your mail now that postal services have resumed.
Mail and Parcels Within Canada
Canada Post will begin processing mail and parcels accumulated since the strike started on a first-in, first-out basis. However, the company will not accept new commercial volumes until Thursday, December 19.
Delivery delays are expected throughout the rest of 2024 and into January 2025. Additionally, Canada Post has suspended service guarantees and advised Canadians to check with their local post offices for varying hours of operation.
International Mail and Parcels
The backlog of international mail and parcels will also take time to process. Canada Post has cautioned customers to expect significant delays, which may extend into 2025.
For those planning to send Christmas cards or international parcels, note that Canada Post will only begin accepting new international mail on December 23, 2024. Cards sent overseas at this time are unlikely to arrive until the new year.
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Patience Required as Canada Post Recovers
As Canada Post works to stabilize its operations, the corporation is urging Canadians to remain patient. With the holiday season in full swing, delivery times may be longer than usual.
Stay updated on Canada Post’s service alerts and announcements to plan your mailing needs accordingly.
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