Saskatchewan Government warns of another possible Canada Post Strike

The Saskatchewan government is preparing for a potential strike by Canada Post workers that could begin as early as May 22.

Provincial ministries, Crown corporations and agencies have activated contingency plans to reduce service disruptions if mail delivery is halted.

Officials are urging clients, suppliers and businesses to sign up for direct deposit, as electronic payments will not be affected by any postal delays.

The Ministry of Social Services says most benefit payments are already issued by direct deposit, but contingency measures are in place for clients who still receive paper cheques. The province is encouraging those individuals to switch to electronic payment methods.

The Ministry of Health warns that letters for private insurance claims under the Special Support Program, Seniors' Drug Plan or Exception Drug Status may be delayed. Requests can still be made online, but documents will not be mailed until postal service resumes.

Delays are also expected for health cards and vital statistics documents such as birth, death and marriage certificates. The public is encouraged to apply online at eHealthSask.ca to avoid service interruptions.

The Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation says it will offer alternative delivery methods for documents typically sent by mail, including email, fax or pickup at local offices. Producers can also register for direct deposit to ensure timely payments.

The Ministry of Finance will allow suppliers without direct deposit to pick up cheques in Regina. Arrangements can be made by calling 306-787-7450.

Businesses are reminded that tax deadlines will remain in effect during any postal disruption. Delays in mail delivery will not exempt businesses from interest or penalties. More information is available in the province’s Information Notice IN 2025-03.

Tax filers are encouraged to use the Saskatchewan eTax Services (SETS) portal to manage payments and filings online. Refunds and grants will be processed as usual for clients using direct deposit. Others can call 1-800-667-6102 to sign up, delay payments or request courier service at their own expense.

Crown corporations including SGI, SaskTel, SaskPower and SaskEnergy are asking customers to sign up for online billing and notifications to avoid delays with account updates, bills and renewals. Customers may also face longer wait times for phone service during a strike and are encouraged to check Crown websites for service options.

The Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee says most clients already receive payments electronically, but backup plans are in place for those who do not. Clients and service providers can switch to direct deposit by contacting their trust officer or calling 1-877-787-5424.

More information is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/postal-strike.