CUPW files unfair labour practice complaint, Canada Post rejects allegations

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) has filed an unfair labour practice complaint against its members’ employer.

According to a press release, CUPW alleges that Canada Post is engaging in direct bargaining with its members.

Those accusations include interfering with the union’s bargaining rights and attempting to discredit the union’s reputation.

The union claims this includes providing information to members without supplying all the relevant documents to the union itself.

“The employer also used captive audience meetings, videos, press releases, […] all leading to the Canada Post website “negotiations hub” in an effort to bypass the Union,” said the CUPW in its press release.

Workers have been in a legal strike position since May 23, but their union opted for an overtime ban instead.

The federal Minister of Jobs and Families, Patty Hajdu, recently urged both parties to resume negotiations and hash out terms for binding arbitration.

Last Sunday, Canada Post rejected the union’s offer for binding arbitration, claiming it would accelerate the company’s significant financial challenges.

In a statement to 1130 NewsRadio on Thursday morning, Canada Post says it places a “great importance” on keeping employees informed of the latest goings on, “especially on something as important to them as the collective bargaining process.”

“Under the Canada Labour Code, employers are permitted to express views and communicate with employees during collective bargaining. Canada Post has exercised this right responsibly, delivering accurate, neutral, and factual information. Employees have a right to understand what is being proposed,” the Crown corporation said.

“As well, the Corporation has not, at any time, negotiated directly with employees. We remain fully committed to concluding collective agreements through the proper channels.

“We reject the allegations made by CUPW in their entirety, and we will respond in the proper forum. In the meantime, we believe both parties should focus their energies on finding a timely and fair resolution to bring stability to the postal service, for our employees and customers.”