Canada Post workers launch nationwide strike

A nationwide walkout by Canada Post workers has halted mail and parcel delivery across the country, marking the second major strike in recent months. The action began on 25 September after the federal government announced sweeping reforms that would end door‑to‑door delivery for about four million homes, replace it with community mailboxes, reduce delivery days, shift non‑urgent letters to ground transport, and close a number of rural post offices. The reforms also give the Crown corporation greater pricing flexibility and aim to cut costs after years of financial losses.

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) organized a National Day of Action in Toronto, where more than 100 employees gathered to protest what they call a “direct assault” on the public postal service and on unionised jobs. Union members argue the changes would devastate rural and Indigenous communities, where post offices serve as vital hubs, and would lead to massive job losses.

Canada Post, which has been losing money for years, says the measures are necessary to make the service viable. Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized the need for restructuring, noting the corporation’s losses of C$1 billion last year and a projected C$1.5 billion deficit this year. The government has already provided a C$1 billion loan to keep operations afloat.

Negotiations have stalled. CUPW says it is still waiting for a “reasonable offer,” while Canada Post claims a “wide gap” remains over part‑time staffing, wages and the scope of the reforms. The postal service warned that the strike will further erode its finances. Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu hinted at possible federal intervention but urged the corporation to present a new offer soon.

During the strike, Canada Post suspended all regular mail and parcel services, stopped accepting new items, and offered no delivery guarantees. Government‑issued social‑security checks continue to be delivered, and passport applications are still processed, with in‑person pick‑up available if needed.

The dispute follows a previous strike last November over pay and working conditions, which ended after the government ordered workers back for the holiday season. That earlier conflict remains unresolved, and the current bargaining round has been ongoing for nearly two years.

The strike’s duration remains uncertain, with both sides awaiting new proposals in early October. The outcome will shape the future of Canada’s postal network, its rural communities and the employment conditions of thousands of workers.