Rally at BC Legislature joins dozens across Canada calling for postal workers’ right to strike

Rally at BC Legislature joins dozens across Canada calling for postal workers' right to strike
CHEK

Workers beginning to gather for the noon rally at the BC Legislature, to support postal workers

Supporters at the BC Legislature Saturday at noon, rallying against the legislated end to Canada Post strikes.

Rallies across Canada are taking place Saturday in response to legislation passed by the federal government ordering striking postal workers back to their jobs.

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers and Friends of Public Services say bill C-89 that was passed Monday is an open attack on the right to strike and is a violation of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

They are calling on their supports in labour, environmental and indigenous movements along with those in impacted communities to join in solidarity with postal workers.

Thirty-one rallies are planned across Canada, the one in Victoria started at noon and has around 70 in attendance. Groups such as the Retail Action Network and Greater Victoria Teachers’ Association are showing their support for the event.

The federal government is standing behind the bill as constitutional, and Labour Minister Patty Hajdu said it was due to the significant increasing economic harm to the country and small businesses, along with the impact to rural and remote communities.

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers said the legislation would not end their efforts to take action, and warned that they would call on allies and members for a campaign of “mobilizations, demonstrations and non-violent civil disobedience.”

Following the end of the rotating strikes, that began around Oct.22, Canada Post says they are working to stabilize operations but that customers should expect delivery delays for the next several weeks.

International parcels in particular could be delayed until Mach 2019.

With files from the Canadian Press (Kristy Kirku/Terry Pedwell)

CHEK NewsCHEK News

Recent Stories

Send us your news tips and videos!