Last week, we announced that we had reached agreements in principle with Canada Post for both postal bargaining units.
What do we mean by “agreements in principle” and what’s the difference between this and “tentative agreements”?
With our agreements in principle, we have told Canada Post that we agree on the big concepts and key issues that will shape our next collective agreements. However, we have not yet finalized the actual contract language.
When we conduct ratification votes, members vote on contract language. Before ratification votes, we print and distribute draft copies of the collective agreements for members to review.
We can think of these agreements in principle as a step before tentative agreements.
How We Reach Tentative Agreements
To reach tentative agreements, two things need to happen:
The Negotiators need to review the proposed contract language to make sure it lines up with what we have agreed to with Canada Post. The National Executive Board (NEB) needs to vote to accept the offers and send them to a membership ratification vote.
At this stage, your Negotiators are continuing to review the proposed contract language.
What Comes Next?
After the Negotiators have finished their review, and the NEB has made its decision, we will let members know. Once we have achieved tentative agreements, the Union will provide members with all the information they need to make an informed decision in a ratification vote.
While our strike action remains suspended, your Negotiators thank all members for their ongoing solidarity and support.
In solidarity,