DHL Express Canada has just wrapped up successful negotiations of a new agreement with employees. This agreement marks the conclusion of a lockout and strike that spanned three weeks. The workers, who are represented by Canada’s largest private sector union, ratified this tentative agreement after nearly a year-long struggle. This resolution impacts 2,142 employees. Whether they’re on the frontlines as truck drivers, couriers, or behind the scenes in warehousing and clerical jobs, they are essential to our country.
The work stoppage started after Transdev locked out workers at midnight on June 8. Soon after, their hard-earned progress faced a serious test when they launched a strike after negotiations soured, especially over the company’s use of replacement workers. On the morning of June 20, DHL Express Canada shut down all operations. Overlapping this decision was the new law, banning the use of replacement staff during labor disputes. Until then, the company had somehow kept the lights on during the first twelve days of the work stoppage.
Background of the Dispute
Since delivering to about 50,000 businesses and homes across the country, DHL Express Canada was hit severely operationally at the time of the lockout & strike. Notable clients include major corporate players like Lululemon, Shein, & Siemens. The negotiations for this tentative agreement brought worker rights to the forefront, specifically the hot-button issue of replacement workers. Union representatives lobbied doggedly to ensure their members were treated equitably and with dignity.
Lana Payne, Atlantic Region director and spokesperson for the union, made a statement commending the bargaining committee’s resolve.
“I am so proud of all the members of the national bargaining committee for standing strong and fighting for the respect they deserved.” – Lana Payne
Payne stressed that this dispute is of historic importance to the advancement of labor rights in Canada.
“This is a historic dispute in our union’s books because we were the test case for the new anti-scab legislation and our union and members stood tall, held strong, and the end result is we got a fair collective agreement.” – Lana Payne
Company Response and Future Operations
After the end of the labor dispute, DHL Express Canada said they were looking forward to getting back to business as usual. The firm notably pledged to focus even more on delivering outstanding services to its customer base, as they are looking forward to their employees returning.
“We are excited to resume our operations and welcome back all our team members. Together, we’ll prioritize delivering the highest quality service to our customers.” – DHL Express
DHL Express Canada is on board to take things in a positive direction! They have ratified a new tentative agreement after a tumultuous time marked by strikes, negotiations, and conflict. With this outcome, strength in unity has once again achieved a remarkable victory for the workers. It is an important move towards addressing labor justice within the industry.
