Canada Post drops Monday lockout of CUPW workers

By Nelson Daily Staff

The mail will continue to move for now as Canada Post withdraws its threat to lockout workers Monday at midnight.

There seems to a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel in the postal labour negotiations.

Canada Post issued a brief statement that said it had withdrawn its lockout notice slated for Monday at midnight, "which will allow both parties to focus their efforts on serious negotiations."

"We are also expecting the union to honour their repeated public statements that they have no plans to issue a strike notice," the statement said.

"Assurance from both parties that the postal system will remain open for business while we negotiate will provide the certainty that Canadians and our employees are looking for."

The Canada Post release came after another statement by Labour Minister MaryAnn Mihychuk.

"I am pleased that there has been movement at the bargaining table and that progress is being made," Mihychuk said.

"I encourage both Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers to continue their discussions beyond the lockout notice deadline. I remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached by the parties."

Mihychuk said federal mediators have been assisting the parties in their negotiations.

"Our government supports a fair and balanced collective bargaining process," she continued.

"The Government of Canada has contingency plans in place in the event of a work stoppage. While a work stoppage will impact the way we deliver services to Canadians, we will continue to provide people with the services and benefits to which they are entitled."

Both sides have been jockeying for position during the weekend with CUPW asking for a 30-day cooling off period.

Mihychuk said Canadians are encouraged to visit Canada.ca for more information. The website will be regularly updated with relevant information.

"I will continue to monitor the situation closely."