Albertans will be able to send critical mail during the Canada Post strike. (Photo: Pattison Media)

By David Opinko

Alberta activates contingency mail delivery plan amid Canada Post strike

Nov 15, 2024 | 3:17 PM

While Canada Post is temporarily closed during a nationwide strike, Albertans will still be able to send and receive mail.

Starting on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, mail can be accepted from Albertans at designated Alberta Government offices across the province. No postage is required.

The province says in a news release that the service is only meant for critical mail.

“Critical mail is material which must reach its intended recipient to avoid health, safety, financial or other significant harm to Albertans, significant risk or loss to government, or legislative non-compliance and that cannot be delivered expediently by courier, fax, electronic or other means,” reads a statement from the Government of Alberta.

Albertans who receive mail from the provincial government will receive a notification by email or phone telling them where they can pick it up or drop it off.

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Scroll to the bottom of this page to see a full list of government mail drop locations in Alberta.

Approximately 55,000 Canada Post employees went on strike on Friday, November 15, calling for increased wages and job protections.

The Crown Corporation will continue to deliver government benefits and other “social and economic cheques,” but will not process or deliver other mail or parcels.

Even once the strike is over, delays will be expected as staff return to their roles and deal with a backlog of mail.

People are encouraged to sign up for online services for things like benefits and banking statements to ensure there are no disruptions.

Other courier service providers are still open.

READ MORE: Canada Post workers are on strike. Here’s what you need to know about your mail