On September 25, 2025, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), representing 55,000 employees, launched a strike over the government’s plan to cancel most home mail delivery services. The strike was an escalation of a months-long labor dispute between the two sides, after negotiations had stalled over issues such as wages and working conditions.
The union’s demands not only target the cancellation of home delivery services, but also include wage increases linked to inflation (a cumulative 19% increase over four years), opposition to mandatory weekend shifts, and outsourcing. Canada Post, however, rejected these demands, citing its “survival crisis.” Canada Post reported a pre-tax loss of $407 million in the second quarter of 2025, calling the union’s demands unrealistic.
The strike has already had a significant impact, disrupting postal and parcel services nationwide. This has impacted prescription drug deliveries and pension cheques in remote areas, and has caused backlogs at couriers like Purolator to limit deliveries. Experts warn that daily economic losses could exceed $100 million. The two sides have yet to reach a consensus, and the federal government has appointed a special mediator to help mediate.
