(December 10, 2024 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa, Ontario) – Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak is calling on Canada Post, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), and the federal government to reach a resolution to the ongoing strike, which continues to disrupt essential services relied upon by First Nations citizens and businesses.
“The delay in the delivery of medicine and medical supplies due to this strike is a serious concern for many First Nations, especially those in isolated, remote, and rural areas with no alternative delivery systems to rely on,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “Many of our citizens rely entirely on Canada Post for access to prescription medications, medical equipment, and healthcare supplies that are not otherwise available. Without these resources, individuals, elders, and families are left without the supports they depend on and could experience unnecessary health risks.”
“The strike has delayed the delivery of financial supports, basic goods, and other necessities, which is particularly challenging as families prepare for winter and depend on reliable delivery of necessary goods to maintain their well-being,” added National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “First Nations entrepreneurs depend on Canada Post as an affordable and accessible shipping option to obtain supplies and reach their customers. The increased costs and delays caused by the strike are creating challenges for small First Nations businesses already navigating economic barriers to their success. First Nations businesses are key contributors to Canada’s economy, and reliable shipping services are essential to their operation.”
“We are calling on Canada Post, CUPW, and the federal government to work together to reach an immediate resolution that restores these critical services to First Nations citizens and businesses while addressing the concerns of postal workers,” concluded National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak.
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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.
Contact Information:
Genna Benson
Director of Communications
Assembly of First Nations
604-340-3117 (mobile)
[email protected]
Jamie Monastyrski
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
(613) 612-7229 (mobile)
[email protected]