We have just received news that the Union has won our legal challenge that the arbitrator appointed to determine the final offer selection arbitration for the Urban Operations Unit must be experienced in labour relations matters and also must be bilingual. This is a major victory for the union. The decision of the Federal Court requires the government to appoint an arbitrator who will be able to properly evaluate the issues and work in both official languages.

Settlement Talks Unsuccessful

Recently there were meetings between CUPW and Canada Post Corporation to discuss a settlement of the urban operation collective agreement. This was to avoid the Final Offer Selection Arbitration Process established as part of the back to work legislation imposed by the Conservative government.

Prior to those discussions the parties agreed that neither would communicate any information about the settlement discussions with the sole exception of the fact that discussions had taken place.

The talks were unsuccessful and have concluded.

Further information on developments in the arbitration process will be made available as they occur.