November 18, 2019 Bulletin # 091
ARBITRATION UPDATE
We have now completed 35 days of hearings. There are 4 dates scheduled for December; 3rd, 6th, 19th and 20th. Canada Post has used 15 hearing dates so far. When the Arbitrator asked about how much longer they need to complete their case, the answer from their counsel was vague. He never really answered the question but stated they think they have 3 or 4 more witnesses to go.
November 8
We continued our cross-examination of CPC Witness Sanjay Paliwal. His cross‑examination should be completed on the next date, December 3. His attitude towards us, like all of Canada Post’s witnesses, continues to be the same as we have seen since the very beginning of the arbitration, that the demands of CUPW for all groups, be it RSMC or Urban, are unacceptable.
Another Extension
On November 18, Arbitrator Elizabeth MacPherson wrote to the new Minister of Labour requesting an extension of her mandate to June 30, 2020. This request is based on the fact that Canada Post will not complete its case before the end of this year. To this, we have to take into account the Union’s very likely rebuttal evidence. With only four days of hearings left this year, it was obvious that the arbitration would need to extend into 2020.
Another Peak Season With No Agreement!
Treat us With Respect Canada Post and Negotiate NOW!!
In Solidarity,
Nancy Beauchamp Sylvain Lapointe
Chief Negotiator On Behalf of the Negotiating Committee
RSMC Unit Urban Unit