Dozens of Amazon Prime delivery drivers across central Saskatchewan walked off the job Friday morning to protest declining wages and deteriorating working conditions. The strike, which began at dawn, has disrupted package deliveries in Saskatoon and surrounding areas.
Drivers Demand Fair Pay
The striking workers, employed by third-party contractors, say their wages have been cut repeatedly over the past year while workloads have increased. Many drivers report earning less than minimum wage after expenses, with some taking home as little as $15 per hour after fuel and vehicle maintenance costs.
Working Conditions Under Fire
Drivers also cited unsafe working conditions, including pressure to deliver packages in dangerous weather and lack of breaks. One driver, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said: "We're treated like machines. They expect us to work faster for less money, and it's just not sustainable."
The strike is the latest in a series of labor actions targeting Amazon's delivery network across Canada. Similar walkouts have occurred in Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary in recent months.
Amazon Responds
Amazon Canada issued a statement saying it is "committed to providing safe and fair working conditions" and that it is working with delivery service partners to address driver concerns. The company noted that drivers are employed by independent contractors, not Amazon directly.
However, striking drivers argue that Amazon sets the pay rates and delivery quotas that determine their working conditions. "Amazon controls everything," said another driver. "They just use the contractors as a buffer to avoid responsibility."
Community Support
Several local residents have expressed support for the striking drivers, with some joining the picket line outside the Amazon delivery hub on Airport Drive. The Saskatoon and District Labour Council has also voiced solidarity, calling on Amazon to negotiate in good faith.
As the strike continues, deliveries in the region face delays. Amazon has not yet commented on how it plans to mitigate disruptions.
