The union representing workers with Canada Post said a postal strike will begin next week if a deal is not reached with the employer.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) has issued a 72-hour strike notice to Canada Post and said a strike will begin on October 22 at 12:01 a.m. for both urban and rural workers.
"The National Executive Board has opted for rotating strikes," the union said in a news release. "Their locations and intensity will depend on Canada Post’s actions at the bargaining table in the days to come."
The union said that over the last 10 months of negotiations, the parties remain far apart on many demands, including wage increases above the rate of inflation, job security and post-retirement benefits.
However, Canada Post issued a statement Tuesday evening that said management has significant offers to CUPW that "include increased wages, job security, and improved benefits and has not asked for any concessions in return."
The national postal service said in the event of a rotating strike, Canada Post will remain open for business and will continue to operate.
"We will notify customers of any disruptions planned by the union as soon as we are aware, however, customers may experience some minor delays," Canada Post said in a news release. "We know Canadians are depending on us to deliver more than ever and understand their concern. We are working hard to get a quick resolution."
Urban and rural postal workers voted overwhelmingly in favour of a strike mandate back in August. The postal workers have been in a legal strike position since September 26.
