As you know, Canada Post is using Manulife to aggressively hassle workers who have been sick or injured. In some cases, it has been reported that there are violations of the collective agreement, human and privacy rights.

It is important to ensure that your rights are protected, as we await the decision of the formal arbitration on the matter.

If you are contacted by Manulife, remember that they are an extension of Canada Post and are acting in the best interest of Canada Post, not yours. Contact your Local immediately to determine how to deal with Canada Post and Manulife’s tactics. Check out the Manulife link in the Health and Safety section of the CUPW national website at www.cupw.ca/manulife_and_cpc.

It has been reported to the Union that Canada Post/Manulife has been requesting Members to visit their Doctor or emergency clinics in situations where medical attention is questionable. An example would be the numerous visits to Doctors for the completion of multiple forms, even though the forms have been completed and are current.

Most provincial health care systems today are overburdened and resources are stretched to the maximum. If you believe that Canada Post and its agent Manulife are abusing your provincial health care system, contact your Minister of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) and file a complaint. You may also file a complaint with the provincial health care ombudsman if there is one in your province.

If you believe that representatives from Manulife, who present themselves as “medical professionals” are over stepping their boundaries and/or acting in unethical or professional misconduct, you have the right to file a complaint with the individuals professional governing body. As indicated in most provincial health professionals acts, there are codes of ethics which must be adhered to. Your Local Union should be copied on all complaints that are put forward.

Canada Post persists with this very aggressive program which has an enormous negative impact on individuals who have been injured in an unsafe workplace or who have had the misfortune to become ill. Does Canada Post actually believe that the threats and intimidation will magically cure someone? Do they want you to suffer in silence?

It is clear that these vicious attacks which are being conducted at a time when people are vulnerable, sick and injured will continue by the employer. One could certainly question the corporate commitment to mental health and respect in the workplace when programs such as this are moving forward full steam ahead. It appears that Canada Post’s plan will be to vigorously attack our sick leave in the next round of negotiations and we must be prepared.

Together, in preparation for 2011, we must begin to voice our concerns in every available forum and not allow Canada Post to trample rights that were gained and agreed upon.