Canada Post Strikes Deal with Second-Largest Union, Talks Stall with CUPW

Photo:AP

After 18 months of tough talks, Canada Post reached a new 11% wage deal with its second-largest union—the Canadian Postmasters and Assistants Association (CPAA)—which represents about 8,500 rural post office managers. The agreement, which is retroactive to early 2024, includes a 6% raise for 2024, 3% for 2025, and 2% for 2026.

Despite the success with CPAA, negotiations with the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW)—representing 55,000 urban postal workers—are still stalled. CUPW remains in a legal strike position, with an ongoing overtime ban since May 23, leading to delays and possible disruptions .

Canada Post described the CPAA agreement as a milestone, signalling progress in one area while it “continues to strive” for a resolution with CUPW. CUPW has requested binding arbitration to resolve the dispute, but talks remain tense .

This development is timely. A recent Industrial Inquiry Commission report highlighted deep financial challenges at Canada Post, including losses and growing competition from private delivery services. It urged all parties to reach a sustainable deal quickly.

With the rural agreement finalized, attention now turns to the urban side. Canada Post has asked the federal labour minister to allow CUPW members to vote on its final offer, while the union keeps up its overtime ban .