Explanation

Wages

CPC proposes a 4 year agreement with wage increases of 1.75%, 1.75%, 1.9% and 2.0%. For Group 1 and 2 employees hired after the date of signing the collective agreement the employer is proposing a starting rate of $18.00 per hour.
CUPW believes the wage offer is much too low considering the current annual inflation rate of 3.3%. The Union opposes the introduction of a new starting salary that would be 22% less than the current starting rate of a letter carrier which is $23.11.

Work Methods and Health and Safety

The union is proposing ergonomic studies prior to the introduction of new equipment or work methods, improved rotation of duties and a “one bundle” method of delivery for all points of call except for “stop and go” and centralized points of call.
The employer rejects these proposals despite the high injury rate of postal workers.

Short Term Disability Plan

CPC proposes to eliminate the current sick leave plan and impose a Short Term Disability Plan administered by Manulife which provides for seven personal days per year. Employees with borrowed sick leave credits will have to reimburse CPC. There is no protection for short term illnesses once employees have exhausted their personal days.
CUPW believes the current sick leave plan should be maintained and employees must be protected from harassment by Manulife. Instead of sick leave the employer should address the reasons for the increasing number of days lost due to workplace injuries. Plus, should Manulife refuse a sick leave claim, there is no recourse to grievance and arbitration.

Internal Staffing

CPC wants a reduction in the current ratio of full-time employees in Group 1. CUPW wants measures to increase full-time job opportunities.

Other Issues

Other issues in dispute include:

• vacation leave and pensions of new hires and current temporary employees when they become regular employees
• householder values
• paid parental leave
• cost of living allowance
• injury on duty pay
• union funds (education and childcare)

CUPW Ready to Negotiate

The union has notified the employer and the mediator that the Union’s National Negotiating Committee is ready to resume intensive negotiations. The CUPW National Executive Board is in Ottawa and they are prepared to make the necessary decisions.