VancouverNews Service — A mediator has concluded that Amazon caused the first-contract impasse at its unionized fulfilment centre in Delta, British Columbia, according to a report released Tuesday.
Mediator's Findings
The mediator's report states that Amazon's bargaining tactics were unreasonable and contributed to the failure to reach a collective agreement. The impasse has delayed the establishment of a first contract for workers at the YVR2 facility, who voted to unionize in 2024.
Union Response
The union representing workers, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers, welcomed the mediator's findings and called on Amazon to return to the bargaining table in good faith. Union President Jan Simpson said, "This report confirms what we have known all along: Amazon is using delay tactics to avoid negotiating a fair contract."
Amazon's Position
Amazon has not yet commented on the mediator's report. The company has previously stated that it respects the unionization process but believes that direct relationships with employees are best.
The mediator's report is non-binding but could influence future negotiations. Labour experts say that such findings often pressure employers to negotiate more seriously.
Background
The YVR2 fulfilment centre in Delta, B.C., became the first Amazon facility in Canada to unionize in 2024. Workers cited concerns over wages, working conditions, and job security. Since then, negotiations have stalled, leading to the mediator's involvement.
This development comes amid broader labour unrest at Amazon facilities globally. In the United States, several warehouses have attempted unionization, with mixed results.
The mediator's report is expected to be used by the union to rally public support and potentially file unfair labour practice complaints against Amazon.
