As you already know, this round of negotiations is based on three major principles: respect, equality and sharing the benefits of new technologies.  Let’s talk about the principle of equality.  In our Program of Demands, we say we are totally opposed to creating two kinds of workers: those who have rights, and those who don’t.

A Two-Tier System

A lot of employers are exploiting the current economic and financial crises to negotiate “two-tier” systems. Canada Post wants to do the same.  So it’s really important for us to know what a two-tier system means.  This is the definition of the two-tier system Canada Post wants to create:

A system where new employees will permanently
have sub‑standard working conditions,
based on the date they are hired.

Just Imagine

Right now, all urban unit members know their rights and obligations under the collective agreement.  But imagine someone hired later on coming to work beside you. That person will not get the same pay, the same benefits or the same pension plan as you for as long as he or she works at Canada ost – all the while knowing that the cost of living is the same for everyone.

That’s the real meaning of “Divide and conquer.” We can’t agree to such a system.

Two-Tier Systems Go Against Union Principles

Creating two classes of workers violates our union principles. It also goes against “Equal pay for equal work.” It also discriminates against new employees, including young workers. We know the long-term impact: wages and working conditions will get worse for everyone.  It amounts to a cheap labour policy.

A two-tier system also violates the principle of union solidarity. We are negotiating a collective agreement, not individual contracts.

The Fight For Full Equality

We’ve been very clear in meetings with the employer: this is not the way to go and is out of the question. We insist on full equality for all workers at Canada Post, both for those who are there now and those who will be in the future. Canada Post should understand this once and for all.

The Struggle continues.