The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) has issued a 72-hour strike notice for Canada Post, meaning that workers could be in a legal strike position starting Friday if no agreement is reached. This notice includes bargaining units for both urban and rural areas.

In a statement issued Tuesday morning, the union stated that the decision to strike depends on how responsive Canada Post is in the coming days at the negotiating table. The union explained: “After nearly a year of negotiations, and despite our best efforts, both parties are still far apart on many issues.”

Canada Post has made an offer that includes annual wage increases of 11.5% over four years, as well as guaranteed protection of defined benefit pensions for current employees, job security, and health benefits. However, the union has rejected this offer.

Last month, the union announced that its members voted overwhelmingly to support a strike if no agreement is reached that meets their demands. This notice indicates an escalation in the situation that could affect postal services across Canada.