Canada Post strike pushes feds into action to protect vital services

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Despite concerns that the Canada Post strike could delay the delivery of vital services, federal departments say they’ve taken steps to limit the impact.

Around 55,000 workers are on strike after the Canadian Union of Postal Workers failed to reach an agreement with the Crown corporation on a new contract. While workers hit the picket lines Friday, some advocates feared those who depend on the mail might suffer.

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In Ottawa, John Atoyebi, a spokesperson for Veterans’ House Canada, a charity that helps house veterans, said in an email that the “service disruption due to Canada Post strike will undoubtedly be felt by our veteran residents.” 

But the federal departments that provide some of those services want to reassure them.

Earlier this week, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) said in a press release that the federal government “understands how important it is for Canadians to continue to receive the benefits and services they need” during a strike.

The department encouraged all Canadians to set up a My Service Canada Account and sign up for direct deposit given that the delivery of physical cheques by mail could be impacted.

While not everyone has access to a computer, ESDC said Canada Post had agreed to continue delivering cheques for socio-economic programs, like the Canada Pension Plan and the Canada Child Benefit, once a month.

Those who receive Employment Insurance cheques by mail were encouraged to sign up for direct deposit, if possible. ESDC said arrangements could be made to have cheques delivered to people’s homes or to a Service Canada centre if needed.

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In a news release Friday, Veterans Affairs Canada said monthly cheques it distributes would be sent out early to “avoid any disruptions” and that veterans could sign up for direct deposit.

The ESDC release said passports would continue to be available for pick-up at Passport Offices and certain Service Canada centres as usual, though people who have applied for a new passport and chose to get it by mail “should expect delays.” People who urgently need a new passport were told to contact Service Canada.

According to ESDC, Service Canada staff have been “equipped with updated procedures and guidance” related to the impacts of a Canada Post strike on services, and are available to help in person and on the phone.

“Our government knows that Canadians count on receiving their benefits and accessing services smoothly, regardless of any disruptions,” Minister of Citizens’ Services Terry Beech said in the release. “We are dedicated to ensuring every client can get what they need, whether it’s through direct deposit, online support, or our in-person centres. Our government is here to support you every step of the way, making sure there are no delays or added stress.”

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Maja Stefanovska, a spokesperson for ESDC, said staff offering front-line services have received training and have been provided with “information and resources” to respond to Canadians’ concerns.

“This potential disruption has not necessitated onboarding of additional staff to deal specifically with its impacts, partially thanks to the mitigation measures that have been put in place,” Stefanovska said.

Stefanovska said the department is “monitoring the situation closely” and is standing by to help Canadians during the strike.

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