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TYRLC 150 years

The struggle continues until we achieve a collective agreement that is good enough, and protects all workers.

Year Founded 1965

Canadian Union of Postal Workers

1965: Wildcat strike over low wages and favouritism/nepotism in post office. CUPW wins collective bargaining rights for federal public sector workers.

1975: After 42 day strike CUPW signs collective agreement with job security and landmark protections from adverse effects of technological change. Cost of living allowance (COLA).

1980: June 2 Ottawa CUPW signs contract with the federal government that included a no-discrimination clause protecting sexual orientation. This was the first time that gay employees of any Canadian federal government department had been awarded such protection. Agreement also provides for 30 minute paid meal period as a share in the benefits of automation.

1981: 42 day strike wins paid maternity and adoption leave, protections from electronic surveillance and health and safety protections including the right to refuse dangerous work.

1985: First union in federal sector to negotiate fully employer paid dental and vision plan, night recovery leave and pre-retirement leave.

1988: Arbitration award (legislated back to work in 1987). Contains lower noise level, reduced maximum weight limits.

1992: Employer paid education fund (3 cents per hour), childcare fund, and Job creation-service expansion fund. Same sex dental and healthcare benefits.

1995: Same sex benefits. Temporary workers gain right to regular employment by seniority. Pension coverage (RRSP) for part-time employees.

2000: Pilot project for contracting in parcel delivery. Part-time employees included in defined benefit pension plan. Full-time staffing ration creates 1000 full-time positions.

2003: Contracting in all expedited parcels, pension coverage for temporary employees with assignments of six months or more. Part-time extended hours made pensionable. RSMCs to obtain employee status and be covered by a collective agreement.

2016: Back to work legislation passed in 2011 ruled unconstitutional.

2016: Negotiates RSMC pay equity process with 2 year time limit and arbitration if necessary. This results in RSMCs making major gains in wages and benefits and personal contact items made pensionable.

2020: Arbitration. (Legislated back to work in 2018). Improved staffing provisions for urban internal workers. RSMCs obtain post-retirement benefits.

The struggle continues until we achieve a collective agreement that is good enough, and protects all workers.

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