November 22, 2004

(Letter sent to the Ottawa Citizen)

Dear Editor:

I would like to alleviate the concerns expressed by Patricia Shapiro in her November 20th letter, "Strike hurts charity", in which she mentions a possible postal strike next month.

Let me assure Ms. Shapiro and the rest of your readers that a work stoppage by members of the Union of Postal Communications Employees (UPCE) would not affect mail delivery in Canada. These employees do not handle the collection, processing or delivery of mail. They provide administrative support and clerical services.

The fact that the union has left the bargaining table to conduct a strike vote is their prerogative and part of the negotiation process under the Canada Labour Code. It certainly does not mean that a work stoppage is imminent.

Canada Post will continue to be available to resume meaningful negotiations at any time and remains hopeful that a fair negotiated settlement can be reached.

Sincerely,

John Caines
Manager, National Media Relations
Ottawa (613) 734-7675