Winnipeg postal workers unite in march for new contracts

In Winnipeg, postal workers from across the province marched the streets in solidarity to mark the beginning of what they hope will result in a new contract.

Local union president, Sean Tugby says he’s hopeful, but not optimistic, as they haven’t come close to reaching a deal.

“The responses back are far short of what we are asking, it’s reductions of benefits, reduction of pensions, there’s no gains it’s all taking things away that we’ve already worked for,” said Tugby.

“We’re currently doing 37,000 steps a day, that works out to about 3.8 marathons every five days and bodies are breaking down,” added Tugby.

Tugby says they are marching in solidarity for the opportunity to collectively work out a contract that includes fair wages, safe working conditions, and widespread benefits. Tugby says there’s a high chance they will soon be putting in their 72-hours notice at the start of a strike.

“Our last negotiated contract was in 2007, every contract after that either we’ve been locked out or we’ve gone on strike, so the likelihood I’d say is pretty high given the past track record,” said Tugby.

Over 55,000 postal workers provide services nation wide, with over 95 per cent voting in favor of a strike. Tugby spoke about why this would impact communities across Canada.

“We bring what’s called food and services to the north, we connect the country, we connected the country throughout covid, we work tirelessly right through things with ridiculous volumes because we want to serve the public,” said Tugby.

As of Sunday, the Union hasn’t given a 72-hour strike notice to Canada Post or the Minister of Labour.