New Canada Post Needs to Eliminate Misclassified and Forced Labour From Contracts: CTA

(TORONTO, May 22, 2025) — As another nation-wide strike at Canada Post looms, a report last week by the Industrial Inquiry Commissioner highlighted the state of the service and the need for Ottawa to consult with the private sector. 

There are many recommendations by both union and management in the report to correct longstanding issues. Both sides emphasized greater expansion into the parcel delivery market, including cross-border shipments. The report stated: 

Expansion of parcel delivery, however, provides an opportunity – although it is very far from a sure thing – for Canada Post to continue its USO and move toward sustainability. As discussed below, both Canada Post and CUPW agree that a parcel- centric Canada Post is its future. 

“Both management and unions are attempting to identify the best path forward for Canada Post. However, the question which must be asked is – does a government organization need to be in this space competing against the private sector?” said Canadian Trucking Alliance president & CEO Stephen Laskowski. 

Laskowski said the CTA Board will assess this situation and examine the role of a government entity expanding into a private sector competitive landscape. 

Once negotiations have been settled, CTA will be also asking the Minister of Procurement, CUPE and Canada Post, to introduce measures that would eliminate the ability of for-hire trucking companies using forced labour and misclassified labour to compete for contracts sent out to bid by Canada Post. 

“CTA has made these requests in the past, but there has been no action to date. Following the release of this recent report, potential restructuring of Canada Post and a new government in Ottawa, we are hoping that action against contractors using misclassified and forced labour will be part of the eventual changes introduced to Canada Post,” added Laskowski.