London postal workers express disappointment, will return to work this week

Federal Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon's decision to intervene and force an end to the Canada Post strike means mail and parcel service across Canada will resume this week.

The nearly month-long strike brought mail to a standstill during a busy holiday period and forced many businesses to move to private carriers.

Postal workers in London expressed mixed emotions today before they head back to work - today was their final day walking the picket line.

They said they're disappointed the federal government is ordering them back to work.

A local union representative says an interim five per cent raise will ease financial stress, but says Canada Post needs to bargain fairly.

London's postal workers had their final day on the picket line before being ordered back to work, Dec. 16, 2024 (Sean Irvine/CTV News London)

“That's all we hope. You know, the hope is that there will be a willingness to actually be productive and come forward at the table in negotiating in good faith,” said Kim Rouble of CUPW Local 566.

With a deal to be hammered out in the coming year, the key issues at the centre of the dispute still remain heading into the next phase of negotiations.

A report from an inquiry commission is expected in May with recommendations on how to get a deal between the union and the corporation.

- with files from the Canadian Press