'Conditions of employment have now changed,' says spokesperson
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) says Canada Post is using layoffs as a "scare tactic" as the strike by more than 55,000 workers stretches into its second week.
In a statement to members on Monday, CUPW said it is investigating the situation and condemned the Crown corporation’s actions.
Canada Post confirmed the temporary layoffs, with spokesperson Lisa Liu telling the Canadian Press that the move aligns with the Canada Labour Code.
"The organization has informed employees that the collective agreements are no longer in effect, and their conditions of employment have now changed," Liu said, referencing provisions related to lockout notices under the Labour Code.
Earlier in November, Canada Post issued a lockout notice, though it emphasized that it did not intend to enforce a lockout. Instead, the notice was positioned as a measure to adjust operations in response to the ongoing strike.
Labour and employment lawyer Deborah Hudson told the Canadian Press that the layoffs as "an unprecedented move" and predicted that the union would pursue legal challenges against the decision.
CUPW has not disclosed its next steps but has reiterated its commitment to addressing what it views as a significant escalation in the labour dispute.
Negotiations between Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) have reached a stalemate, and the special federal mediator has decided to temporarily suspend mediation, according to the government.
