Canada Post temporarily laying off striking workers, union says
Canada Post spokeswoman Lisa Liu confirmed the layoffs, saying they are temporary.
The union representing Canada Post workers has accused the Crown corporation of laying off striking employees as a pressure tactic, as the labor action involving more than 55,000 workers nears its two-week mark.
In a statement issued Monday, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers described the layoffs as a "scare tactic" and confirmed it is investigating the matter.
Canada Post spokesperson Lisa Liu acknowledged the layoffs, stating that they are temporary. Liu explained that the corporation informed employees their collective agreements are no longer in effect, with employment conditions adjusted in accordance with the Canada Labour Code. This move follows Canada Post’s earlier issuance of a lockout notice, which, according to the organization, was not intended to enforce a lockout but to enable operational changes during the strike.
Legal experts have noted the unusual nature of this development. Labour and employment lawyer Deborah Hudson described Canada Post’s decision as unprecedented and predicted it would likely face legal challenges from the union.
