“Alberta’s government is deeply concerned by the lack of progress in negotiations between Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers.
“While our government fully respects the collective bargaining process, after considerable feedback from Alberta’s charities and small businesses, we have heard clearly that reliable postal services are essential to both Canada’s and Alberta’s economies.
“This strike has already had serious and far-reaching effects on Albertans, from individuals waiting for personal mail during the Christmas season, to businesses that depend on timely deliveries to successfully operate and remain profitable.
“According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, the Canada Post strike costs small- and medium-sized businesses in Canada $76 million per day. As of today, it is estimated the Canada Post strike has cost Canadian businesses over $2 billion.
“Small- and medium-sized businesses make up 99.8 per cent of all businesses in Alberta, representing 13 per cent of Canada’s small- and medium-sized businesses. Each day this situation goes unresolved, it intensifies the long-term challenges for Alberta's businesses, consumers and the economy.
“The strike has also severely disrupted the ability for charities to receive donations and communicate with supporters, jeopardizing their critical work in communities across Alberta.
“The federal government must use every tool at its disposal and take immediate action to end this strike before it harms more Canadians and further damages the livelihoods of countless Albertans and Alberta’s economy.”