Canada Post Cuts RSMC Wages

Canada Post has decided unilaterally to proceed with the reduction of wages of approximately 1,000 Rural and Suburban Mail Carriers. Under article 33.01 (b) of the collective agreement the difference between the activity component and the current amount paid is the “red circle amount” This would remain in place and be paid until the activity component  exceeded the red circle amount or December 31, 2015, which is the expiry of the collective agreement. Canada Post has notified RSMCs the red circle amount will be removed effective January 1, 2016.

Article 34.01 sets the term of the collective agreement from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2015.

Article 34.03 states “After its expiration, this collective agreement shall remain in full force and effect until the signing of a new collective agreement or until the requirements of section 89(1) of the Canada Labour Code have been met.”

BARGAINING FOR EQUALITY

The parties will be in negotiations before the end of the year. The overall compensation package for all members must be settled at the bargaining table.

One of the union’s main goals for RSMCs in this round of bargaining is to achieve equality with urban members who perform the same work. With an hourly wage like the urban letter carriers’ and pay for all hours worked, including overtime where applicable, we will be in a position to reach equality for all.

MOVE FORWARD, NOT BACKWARDS

Removing money that in some cases members have been receiving since 2004 does not move us forward. It will also not address in any way Canada Post’s ongoing concerns of retaining route holders and relief employees. Instead of bonuses and hiring contractors, resources should be invested in the employees performing the work.

Taking money out of the pockets of RSMCs is a step back. A step back in time to a system that promoted inequality, favoritism and unfair divisions.

In Solidarity,