Once again, thank you for the invitation to participate in this process. I would like first to introduce my colleague Michael Ling, first vice-president for the association.
Let me start by saying that the association supports some of the five-point action plan from Canada Post. We agree with the corporation and the task force that in some way we need to evolve. We are in 2016, so something needs to happen.
The association is a trade union and sees itself as having a very progressive approach to labour relations. We are a strong advocate of alternative dispute resolution, interest-based negotiation, consultation, and open dialogue. Our unique blend of broad-minded thinking and collaborative problem-solving places us in the distinctive position to assist the corporation in implementing some of the five-point action plan.
In fact, our members have directly participated in a conversion of urban Canadian households receiving door-to-door mail delivery to less costly community mailboxes. The corporation has placed this part of the five-point action plan on pause pending the result of the standing committee, and we are anxious to see the outcome of it.
Beyond this initiative we see a number of opportunities for the future of Canada Post, including leveraging of one of the largest retail network infrastructures. This network has served Canada as well as merging the rural with the urban, as well as the corporation's fleet transportation network, which can be further leveraged to serve Canadians.
The association can state unequivocally that the past success of Canada Post has been a direct by-product of the work and contribution of all its employees. It is the association's impression that any change to the corporation may result in a negative impact on the terms and conditions of employment of those employees. It is the association's belief that in order for the corporation to be successful it must attract a high level of talent. This can only be achieved by providing attractive working conditions and employment which must include good benefits and a strong pension plan for its employees.
We believe that we must be involved in the conversation. By way of example, in late 2013, the honourable Mr. Flaherty spearheaded government legislation that provided a five-year exemption to Canada Post from the requirement to make payment to address the solvency deficit required under the Pension Benefits Standards Act. It appears that the reprieve will come to an end without any further resolution on the horizon.
We unfortunately have not been part of those discussions. The association believes in the collaborative approach to seeking solutions to address the concerns of all employees of Canada Post. This would include consultation on how to assure the provision of a solid and fair retirement. It is the association's view that a successful Canada Post results in a content and thriving employee, which will benefit all Canadians.
The association looks forward to working with the corporation and participating in the mandate review process, particularly in light of the challenge and opportunity facing Canada Post Corporation today, and we believe we have a lot to offer. As long as we keep our focus and our goal to deliver quality and affordable postal service for Canadians and to consult with each other, we believe this can be achieved.
I know my English is not as perfect as some of yours but I think everybody understood. Thank you.