Canada Post responds

I would like to respond to reader Jim Cassell's letter, Reader is 'going postal,' in the Sept. 13 Citizen.

Canada Post began operations in a new North Brampton facility in May 2004 to accommodate growth in the area, serving Brampton and surrounding areas of Caledon East and Bolton. Urban coding, which provides an unique address and postal code for each resident, became effective for identified customers Oct. 17, 2005.

To encourage full customer and business support of this address change, Change of Address cards and complimentary mail redirection were initially offered for a six-month period. In February 2006, Canada Post extended complimentary mail redirection for an additional six months, in effect, supporting the address change for one full year.

Canada Post recognized the needs of the community and actively solicited input via meetings with local officials, two town hall sessions held during the summer of 2005 and the issue of several customer letters. A dedicated 1-866-495-5056 line remains in place for customers to share their questions and comments.

Canada Post routinely reviews mail delivery routes and operational changes are made to improve service for our customers. As all routes have established boundaries, the travel distances for customers to pick up parcels from their local post office varies dependent upon their physical location on the route.

Canada Post has a responsibility to ensure safe working conditions for all of our employees. The Criminal Code of Canada imposes liability on corporations that fail to take reasonable measures to protect employee and public safety. Under the new Bill C45, an amendment to the Criminal Code, the liability is now extended to all employees of the corporation who direct the work of others and who must take "reasonable steps" to ensure the safety of workers and the public.

Please note that the driver mentioned in the letter is a valued employee of Canada Post, not a contract driver, and his vehicle equipped with corporate signage and an operational flashing yellow light. As a result of an accident in August, 39 customers have been temporarily converted to centralized delivery via group mail boxes, pending the results of an ongoing investigation by Human Resources and Social Development Canada (HRSDC).

Centralized delivery sites are always located in safe stopping areas, so that customers can pick up their mail. In the winter months, Canada Post ensures that sites are maintained and cleared of snow.

Canada Post strives to continuously improve service and will work with the local municipality to determine permanent delivery solutions for the community.

Our records indicate that Sherry Molstad, superintendent, North Brampton Facility has responded to Mr. Cassell's inquiries. Canada Post rectified the group mail box issue in question within 48 hours, issuing new keys and customer letters apologizing for any inconvenience, all mail taken out for delivery to customers.

We value feedback and encourage customers to contact Canada Post through a variety of communications channels including the dedicated 1-866-495-5056 line, via our Customer Service general line at 1-800-2671177, visiting our Web site www.canadapost.ca or by speaking with our retail staff at a local post office.

Jim Gilbert

Toronto West Operations Director Canada Post Corporation