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Canada Post and union reach tentative deal to end strike
Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), representing roughly 55,000 employees, announced a tentative agreement on Sunday to suspend a strike that has disrupted mail deliveries nationwide for weeks.
The union confirmed that while the core terms have been settled, final contractual language must still be drafted before members vote on the deal. CUPW emphasized it retains the right to resume strike action if necessary.
Background: Months of labor unrest
The nationwide strike began on September 25, later shifting to rolling walkouts as negotiations stalled over wages, benefits, and working conditions. Talks between the union and Canada Post have dragged on for nearly two years.
Last September's strike followed the federal government's announcement of sweeping operational changes at Canada Post, including ending door-to-door delivery for four million households, reducing air transport for non-urgent mail, and closing some rural post offices. The government justified the reforms as essential to curb mounting losses-Canada Post reported a C$1 billion (US$717 million) deficit in 2024 and projects a C$1.5 billion shortfall this year.
Financial pressures and industry decline
Like postal services in the U.S. and U.K., Canada Post faces shrinking demand for traditional mail. Revenue from letters, direct marketing, and parcel services has declined due to digital alternatives and competition from private couriers.
The latest strike echoes a November 2024 walkout over similar pay disputes. Last December, the government intervened ahead of the holiday season, ordering workers back to their posts.
Next steps
Both sides will now finalize the agreement's language before presenting it to union members for ratification. Until then, all strike and lockout activities remain suspended.
"While this is being done, it has been agreed that all strike or lockout activities are suspended."
Canada Post statement
