Workers at Canada Post have initiated a nationwide strike in response to the government's call for significant changes to the company's financial operations. The Canadian Union of Postal Workers reported this, as stated by Reuters.
"In response to the government's actions against our postal service, all CUPW members at Canada Post are commencing a nationwide strike," the union declared.
During the strike, Canada Post indicated that its operations would be halted, and customers should expect delays.
"The corporation is disappointed that the union has decided to escalate strike activities, further worsening Canada Post's financial situation," stated an email sent to Reuters by the national postal service.
Earlier on Thursday, the Canadian government instructed Canada Post to undertake serious changes in its operations, citing structural issues that lead to losses.
"This situation is unstable. Canada Post is essentially insolvent, and repeated financial infusions are not a long-term solution.
Transformation is necessary to ensure the survival of Canada Post and protect the services upon which Canadians rely," the government stated.
Additionally, the government is reviewing the process for increasing postage rates.
The union mentioned that the announcement from the minister responsible for Canada Post, Joel Lightbound, did not provide clear details on how the changes would be implemented in the organization.
They also added that recommendations, which include the renovation of mailboxes in communities, could lead to significant job losses and changes in delivery standards.
CUPW stated that, according to their information, Canada Post would need time until next week to present new global proposals.

As a reminder, in August, Air Canada flight attendants announced that they would continue their strike and contest a return-to-work order, which they consider unconstitutional, despite the government's decision to force them back to their duties.