Thousands Tell Tories to Consult on Postal Service

MILTON, ON, Sept. 12, 2014 /CNW/ - On the day that the Canadian Postal Service Charter opens up for review, representatives from the Canadian Union of Postal Workers and other concerned groups are rallying at Minister Lisa Raitt's office in Milton to send a strong message to the federal Conservatives that they should be talking to the public about postal service.

Over 10,000 signed "Make the Review Public" postcards were delivered to Raitt's office, calling for the government to adhere to the terms of its own Charter and conduct a public review of the post office.

"For almost two years now, we have been trying to get a meeting with Raitt as the Minister responsible for Canada Post," said Denis Lemelin, National President of CUPW, speaking at today's rally.

"This government does not consult with the people who are affected by its actions. It cuts and runs," said Lemelin.

When Canada Post's five-point plan was announced in December 2013, CUPW wrote to Raitt, asking her to put a hold on the plan and use the Charter review to consult with the public. To date, Raitt has refused to meet with CUPW and also refuses to discuss the elimination of postal services, according to the union.

"The public owns Canada Post. They have a right to input. It's time to stop these cuts and talk about the future," said Lemelin.

"Today, we are serving Lisa Raitt and the Tories notice that they can run but they can't hide. Their support for postal cuts and failure to consult will be a major issue in the federal election in 2015."

You can view the Canadian Postal Service Charter at: http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/mediaroom/infosheets-canadapost-1770.htm

SOURCE Canadian Union of Postal Workers