The Decibel What the Canada Post strike says about the power of unions
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Dec 4, 2024 In this discussion, Vanmala Subramaniam, The Globe’s Future of Work reporter and labor issues expert, delves into the ongoing Canada Post strike involving over 55,000 postal workers. She sheds light on the core issues of wage increases and the challenges posed by gig workers. As the strike continues, questions arise about government intervention and its implications for the labor movement. Subramaniam also explores recent trends in worker empowerment, union dynamics, and the broader context of labor relations in Canada today.
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Key Issues in the Canada Post Strike
- Key issues in the Canada Post strike include wages and weekend parcel delivery structure.
- The union wants higher wage increases and existing full-time workers to handle weekend deliveries, while Canada Post proposes part-time flex workers.
Canada Post's Workforce Changes
- Canada Post aims to create a new class of part-time flex workers for weekend deliveries to compete with companies like Amazon and gig economy delivery services.
- This move is driven by the rise of third-party delivery carriers using independent contractors, impacting Canada Post's competitiveness.
Canada Post's Financial Losses
- Canada Post attributes its financial losses to high labor costs and competition from gig workers.
- The union suggests exploring postal banking, similar to models in other countries, as a revenue-generating strategy.