The Canadian Federation of Independent Business is calling for a quick resolution to the rotating Canada Post strikes, saying that small businesses are once again being left in the cold. 

 

CFIB president Dan Kelly said that while the rotating strikes may be less harmful than a general strike, they create additional uncertainty for businesses. He added that by even threatening a strike, more small business customers move to alternative couriers and may never return to Canada Post. 

 

Kelly went on to say that while many Canadians have become less reliant on traditional mail, it is still an important service for smaller businesses. He said that over half of small firms pay each other by paper cheque, and that nearly two thirds send more than 20 pieces of mail per month.  

 

Kelly added that it’s time for Canada Post to “bring its spending under control, instead of handing growing costs on to consumers and businesses who are already facing postal rate hikes in January.”  

 

The CFIB says that they recommend small businesses consider using e-transfers and also consider using alternative shipping services in response to the work stoppage. 

 

A spokesperson for the Canadian Union of Postal Workers, who represents those striking, told Arctic Radio News that they cannot comment on if there is any labour action planned for workers here in Manitoba.