The ongoing Canada Post strike, now in its 15th day, may continue for an extended period, according to Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon. “We are at a dead end in negotiations,” MacKinnon told reporters, expressing frustration over the stalled talks between the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) and Canada Post management.“It is possible we will have a prolonged labour conflict,” said MacKinnon, adding that both sides must reassess their positions. Blacklock's Reporter said he criticized the lack of progress, despite the involvement of federal mediators who withdrew earlier this week after contract negotiations collapsed.“These two parties had access to the best mediation services available,” MacKinnon said. “It is as if both parties live in a world where the Canada Post business model has not evolved.”MacKinnon emphasized the need for both sides to move toward a resolution, urging the union to “consider a solution” and management to “reach a ratifiable agreement.” However, he ruled out government intervention at this time, stating, “We are not considering any intervention. Binding arbitration is not in the cards.”The strike, which began November 15, comes during Canada Post’s busiest season for holiday mail and parcel deliveries. A similar dispute in 2018 lasted 35 days before the government passed back-to-work legislation. At the time, Canada Post estimated rotating strikes cost the corporation $110 million, though CUPW claimed backlogs could be cleared within days.“Obviously, there are small businesses and others who are affected by this labour conflict,” MacKinnon said, acknowledging the broader impact. “I am not happy about that situation. I’ll let the parties explain their positions. They can do that for themselves.”The last strike to resolve without government intervention occurred in 1975 and lasted 43 days. MacKinnon, while refraining from commenting on specific proposals, reiterated that the resolution ultimately lies with the union and Canada Post management.
