Residents in south Winnipeg and other parts of the city started receiving their mail again on Tuesday.
Delivery was interrupted Monday to 38,000 customers when dozens of Canada Post carriers walked off the job to protest what they say are unsafe working conditions.
"It is cumbersome,” said letter carrier, Brian Barstead. “It's like juggling three balls instead of two.”
Carriers now have to carry a bundle on their arms, one in their hand and another in a satchel over their shoulder. They're also not allowed to reorganize themselves on the street.
"They are saving a lot of money because we're on the street longer,” said Barstead. “They've managed to get rid of parcel drivers by giving us parcels as well.”
Now, some are facing discipline while the dispute over a new sorting and delivering routine is still unresolved.
Barstead returned to his job Tuesday to discover that he and nearly 70 of his Southwest Depot coworkers are getting five day suspensions.
While the majority went back to work, ten employees refused and two took stress leaves.
Union representatives were also barred from entering any of the mail depot’s premises. Union officials instead spent the day dealing with letter carrier issues - concerns they say they'll take to court or the labor board.
Canada Post could also take the carriers to court.
"We will respond to an illegal work stoppage,” said Canada Post Spokesperson, Kathryn Neal. “We do have the right to pursue an injunction through the court.”
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