As strike action looms, unionized Greater Victoria Canada Post workers gathered outside the Glanford Avenue Canada Post facility in Saanich for a solidarity rally while negotiations continue between the Canadian Union of Postal Workers and the Crown corporation.
For over a year, Canada Post has been in negotiations with the union, and now, following a cooling period that ended on Nov. 2, the union is currently in a position to issue a 72-hour strike notice.
"During the COVID-19 pandemic, we were among the front-facing workers that were out there day after day after day. We never stopped. In fact, we got busier. We are the lifeline of communities, especially in small rural communities where other companies don't go. We go everywhere," said Kate Holowatiuk, president of CUPW Victoria.
The union says 95.8 per cent of urban workers, and 95.5 per cent of rural workers voted in favour of strike action.
"That's a really strong message to Canada Post and to our negotiators that we're willing to do the time on the line to get what we deserve," she said.
The union is asking for a 22 per cent wage increase over four years, along with other demands such as pensionable hours for all hours worked, a guaranteed 40-hour work week, a cost of living allowance and improved benefits.
Bruce Williams, CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, said he hopes the parties can come to an agreement as an upheaval could cause strain on local businesses.
"Businesses need certainty so they can plan for expenses needed to provide services or deliver goods. Any disruption that adds uncertainty creates risk and can be especially stressful for many small businesses operating with tight margins," said Williams in an emailed statement. "We're hoping the two sides can continue negotiations to achieve a fair agreement that allows this national institution to continue to serve Canadians through its courier and mail delivery services while keeping good jobs in our region."
Last week, Canada Post put forward a new offer of an 11.5 per cent wage increase over four years, which they say will "protect and enhance what's important to CUPW-represented employees – including offering higher wage increases – while responding to the challenges facing the country's postal service."
Though there is still uncertainty, the union, which has 600 Greater Victoria workers who have signed up to attend the picket lines, believes that job action will likely happen.
