At this time of the year, it is important to pause for a moment, look back at our progress and ask ourselves: what does THE COMING YEAR HAVE IN STORE FOR US?

The achievements in 2009

The Union at all levels has worked very hard to ensure our vision of a public and universal postal service is presented as a viable alternative to the Corporation’s private sector model.

We have had some success.  The report of the Strategic Review Committee put forward some of the recommendations from our submission to them, but more importantly clearly recommended against deregulation.

The Union hosted an International Conference on postal modernization, bringing together unions from five continents.  All participants were impressed by this initiative and praised CUPW for our vision and for the tremendous learning and networking experience the conference provided.

The challenges in 2010

As always, the struggle continues.  The consultations on Modern Post have reached a stage where some issues will have to be taken to arbitration.  But we know that we achieve our best results when we rely on the collective strength and wisdom of our members.  In this struggle, we also need to reach out to our allies and together push for expansion of service and decent jobs and to overcome the Corporation’s cheap labour strategy focused on the bottom line rather than social responsibility.

2010 will bring a renewed collective agreement for RSMC`s incorporating their demands for better benefits and working conditions.  The progress they have made since joining CUPW is a testament to the power of unions.

As important as our struggles with our employers are, we also recognize the need to engage with others around the world to strive for peace, economic fairness and environmental protection.

We encourage our members to participate in activities that further those goals.

The struggle continues!