Steps Needed to End the National Postal Strike
AFP Canada sent the following letter urging the federal government to help both parties find a solution to the postal strike as soon as possible.
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November 28, 2024
The Honourable Steven MacKinnon, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Labour and Seniors
Place du Portage Phase II
165 de l’Hôtel-de-Ville Street
Gatineau, Québec J8X 3X2
Subject: Steps Needed to End the National Strike at Canada Post
Dear Minister MacKinnon,
On behalf of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), our over 3,000 members in Canada and the millions of Canadians who depend on the charitable sector’s work, made possible by donations, I write today to urge you to take all appropriate steps to ensure parties reach a quick resolution in the labour dispute at Canada Post as soon as possible.
During one of the most critical times of the year for charities, this postal strike could not come at a worse time.
While we acknowledge the importance of collective bargaining rights, we cannot ignore the significant economic and social consequences of this strike on Canadians. According to AFP surveys, many charities receive at least half of their annual donations during the final three months of the year, with December being the most important month.
This postal disruption will severely impact charities’ ability to deliver essential services to Canadians and communities in need.
While most charities now provide secure online donation options through their websites and share information on other ways to give, direct mail remains the primary method for annual donations, most of which are made at this time of year.
Given the current strike, donors may receive their donation requests too late, donations sent by mail may be delayed, and some donors may decide to delay making their donations. This could result in a major loss of funding just when it is most needed by charities and Canadians from coast to coast to coast.
The need for charitable support is significant. According to an Ipsos poll conducted for CanadaHelps, a quarter of Canadians rely on charities for basic needs such as food, shelter, and health services. The funding to provide these services comes from donations.
Every day counts, and AFP Canada, and all Canadians, need Canada Post to resume its operations.
AFP is urging both sides to reach a settlement as soon as possible. We are urging the federal government to exercise any steps deemed appropriate to ensure Canadians are not at a loss, and that their needs are met during this giving season.
We thank you for the attention given to this urgent request.
Sincerely,
Lisa Davey
Vice President
AFP Canada
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