DHL stops deliveries in Canada amid strike, new law banning replacement workers

DHL Express Canada has made the decision to halt delivery services across the country due to an ongoing strike by more than 2,000 workers represented by Unifor. The strike, which began on June 8 after failed negotiations between the union and the German-owned company, has led to a complete shutdown of operations. This move comes as new federal legislation banning replacement workers takes effect, further complicating the situation.

Unifor has outlined their key bargaining priorities with DHL, including concerns over wages, working conditions, and the increasing use of surveillance and automation in the workplace. Balkar Bains, a representative from Unifor, expressed disappointment with DHL’s disregard for the new legislation, stating that it was meant to empower unions in negotiations.

Despite initially continuing operations during the first few days of the strike, DHL began to wind down its services earlier this week in anticipation of the new legislation. Unifor president Lana Payne has accused the company of bringing in replacement workers, which she believes undermined efforts to negotiate fair wages.

In response to the shutdown, customers like Holly Rockbrune, who owns an antique store in Pickering, Ontario, have been forced to seek alternative shipping options. With a significant portion of her clients being American, the ongoing delivery issues have posed challenges for her business. Similarly, customers like Prateek Mahajan have faced difficulties with delayed deliveries, with Mahajan expressing frustration over not receiving his wedding clothes on time.

The DHL strike comes amidst a larger backdrop of delivery disruptions in Canada, with Canada Post also facing challenges in negotiations with its unionized workforce. These disruptions, combined with the ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada, have created a turbulent environment for businesses reliant on reliable shipping services.

As the strike continues and DHL’s operations remain at a standstill, the impact on businesses and customers across the country is becoming increasingly evident. The uncertainty surrounding the resolution of the strike and the implications of the new legislation have left many in limbo, awaiting a resolution that will allow for the resumption of normal delivery services.