ACTION ALERT: Keep postal delivery public

August 14, 2008

On April 21st, 2008, Lawrence Cannon, the Federal Minister responsible for Canada Post, announced a governmental review of Canada Post Corporation. The Advisory Panel conducting the review is not holding public hearings, but instead, is requesting written submissions from the public, specifically on Canada Post’s market and competition; public policy objectives and responsibilities; commercial activities; and financial and performance targets, as stated in the review’s Terms of Reference . (See http://www.cpcstrategicreview-examenstrategiquescp.gc.ca/index-eng.html for more information about the review’s guiding principles, mandate, etc.).

The Council of Canadians is concerned this review will consider whether the industry should be deregulated, and will result in opening up postal delivery to free-market competition. We are concerned this would jeopardize universal postal service, effectively limiting or reducing service in rural and remote areas of our country. Additionally, the lack of public hearings on a topic that will affect all Canadians is unacceptable.

TAKE ACTION!

Written submissions must be sent by September 2nd at 11:59pm EST. The federal government website where you can make a submission is located here: http://www.cpcstrategicreview-examenstrategiquescp.gc.ca/hw-eng.html. A sample letter to send is below, but if you’d rather write your own, or would like more information on the issues visit here: http://www.cupw.ca/index.cfm/ci_id/10887/la_id/1.htm.

SAMPLE LETTER:

Dear Dr. Campbell, Mrs. Beaudoin and Mr. Bader:

RE: Canada Post Corporation Strategic Review (CPCSR)

I am writing to you because I am very concerned about the future of universal, public postal service in this country.

I am most concerned about the issue of whether Canada Post should continue to have the exclusive privilege of handling our mail, or if it should be opened up to free-market competition. I feel very strongly that deregulation would jeopardize universal postal service. If postal delivery is opened up to free market competition, those living in rural or remote areas would see a reduction or elimination of services because it is not profitable. Postal deregulation in other countries has led to reduced service, higher postal rates and fewer jobs. There is no good reason to make a change that would undermine Canada Post’s ability to fund and provide services to all Canadians.

I understand that consultations are being held with stakeholders, including government, industry, delivery companies and business groups. I am very concerned that public comment can only be made in written submissions. The lack of public hearings during this review of Canada Post, which most government review panels undertake, concerns me greatly.

I stand with The Council of Canadians and citizens across the country in saying no to postal deregulation.

Thank you for considering my submission.

(Name)
(Chapter, if applicable)