Canada Post lays off striking workers amid ongoing labor action
- Over 55,000 Canada Post workers have been on strike for nearly two weeks.
- Canada Post has temporarily laid off striking employees, claiming the layoffs are necessary for operational changes.
- The Canadian Union of Postal Workers argues the layoffs are a scare tactic and plans to challenge the move legally.
In Canada, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers represents over 55,000 Canada Post employees who have been on strike for nearly two weeks. The union has labeled Canada Post's layoffs of striking workers as a scare tactic. Following the initiation of the strike, Canada Post confirmed that these layoffs are temporary and that the employees were informed their collective agreements were no longer in effect. This decision falls under the provisions of the Canada Labour Code, specifically regarding lockouts. Canada Post had previously issued a lockout notice, but clarified it did not intend to enforce a lockout; instead, it aimed to adjust operations in response to the strike. Legal expert Deborah Hudson commented on the unprecedented nature of these layoffs, suggesting they may provoke legal challenges from the union in defense of the workers' rights. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between Canada Post management and employees amidst their labor actions, as both sides navigate the legality and implications of the current labor dispute.