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OTTAWA — The Canadian Union of Postal Workers said Monday its urban members could strike this week if the union’s final contract offer is rejected by Canada Post.

“Striking is our only real bargaining lever with Canada Post and we have concluded that we must give notice that we are willing to use our legal right to strike to get a decent contract that meets the needs of our members and preserves public postal service,” CUPW National President Denis Lemelin said in a statement.“After seven months of negotiations, Canada Post continues to demand major concessions, including unsafe work methods, a 22% wage reduction for new hires and the elimination of a sick leave plan that members have had for over 40 years.”

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The union will be in a legal position to strike on Thursday at 11:59 p.m.

A spokeswoman for Canada Post told Postmedia News on Sunday that the package offered to employees is “very fair” and that the Crown corporation hopes the union will “seriously consider it.”

She added that Canada Post is committed to reaching an agreement.

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers represents 48,000 members in its urban operations bargaining unit, including full-time, part-time, and temporary workers.

Ottawa Citizen