Once again technological change has hit the radar for the Canadian Union of Postal Workers. Canada Post announced in October 2007 a $1.9 billion project to bring new technology and work processes onto the work floor.

Our protection when it comes to technological change arises from the collective force and action of the membership but also from strong contractual language in the urban operations collective agreement and the Canada Labour Code.

Article 29 in the urban operations collective agreement contains the best language on technological change found in any collective agreement in North America and possibly the world. What is important about the language in the urban operations agreement is that changes in work processes are covered, whether or not they result from the introduction of new equipment.

What does the language on technological change call for?

Adverse effects: Clause 29.02 calls for all adverse effects that are created in carrying out the technological change to be eliminated. Notice: When a technological change is considered, Canada Post must notify the union as far as possible in advance and update information as new developments arise (clause 29.03 a). The corporation must also provide the union with a detailed description of the project, disclosing all foreseeable effects and repercussions on workers, at least 120 calendar days before the technological change is introduced (clause 29.03 b).

The union has received a 29.03 (a) notice from Canada Post regarding the Modern Post technological...

In This Issue

A chronology of technological change ...2

What arbitrators have ruled about technological change ...3