A potential breakthrough in the long-running Canada Post labor dispute is on the horizon. Federal Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu announced Thursday that Canada Post’s latest contract offer will be put to a vote by members of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW).

Minister Hajdu, citing the importance of resolving the situation for the public good, stated on social media that the vote is in the “public interest.” Canada Post has declared these proposals to be their “final” offers. The Canada Industrial Relations Board will oversee the vote, aiming for a swift resolution, according to Hajdu’s statement.

This move comes amidst ongoing tension between Canada Post and CUPW, which represents approximately 55,000 postal workers. The union has voiced its opposition to a membership vote, expressing skepticism about Canada Post’s commitment to meaningful arbitration. In a bulletin issued to its members on Tuesday, CUPW accused the employer of lacking seriousness in pursuing genuine arbitration processes.

The outcome of this vote will be crucial in determining the next steps in this protracted labor dispute, and whether it finally signals an end to the impasse. The speed and efficiency of the vote conducted by the Canada Industrial Relations Board will be key to its success.