Protecting rural post offices and rural mail delivery

Many of you have asked me about the future of mail delivery and postal services in our region. I understand your concerns and I thank you for bringing them to my attention. It seems as if rumours have been circulating about the possibility of post office closures and cuts to mail delivery in our riding. This is unfortunate and untrue. Our government has been steadfast in its support of the rural way of life and this includes protecting rural mail.

As the Federal Minister in charge of Canada Post, I can tell you that the Government has no plans to close any post offices in our region. In fact, our Government recently created a Charter, called the Canadian Postal Service Charter, which clearly puts a moratorium on post office closures across our region and across our country. You can find a copy of the Charter online at “www.tc.gc.ca/cpservicecharter, or by visiting your local post office or by calling 1 800-0-Canada.

The Moratorium on post office closures means that post offices in our riding are not at risk of closure. The Charter indicates that the provision of postal services to rural regions of the country is an integral part of Canada Post’s universal service.

As a resident of a small community, I know that mail delivery is essential for you, your families and your businesses. Post offices in our smaller communities are an essential part of their identity and economic stability. As the Minister in charge of Canada Post, I will continue to stick up for rural mail delivery and our Government will also continue to be steadfast in our defence of rural post offices and rural mail routes.

Our Government’s Service Charter is just one part of our commitment to giving Canadians the necessary tools they need to hold Canada Post accountable for their service. I hope this information clears up any misinformation you may be receiving from other sources. In the end, Canadians deserve a universal, effective and economically viable postal service.

For more information please contact Rob Merrifield: 1-800-268-7117

Hon. Rob Merrifield, M.P.
Member of Parliament for Yellowhead
Minister of State for Transport