Canada Post to cut service in rural areas

NEWS/ TNRD — If it’s true that misery loves company, rural TNRD directors will have plenty of it as they look at the latest changes from Canada Post today.

A raft of letters from the post office outlines downgrades to service in several communities in the region.

The Pinantan Lake post office will no longer be open Saturdays and will cut weekday hours as of next week. Weekday hours will now be 9 a.m. to 1 Mondays through Thursdays and 10 to 6.

The reason stated for the changes is “a very small number of local customers” on Saturdays and during some weekday hours.

“While I recognize this is a change for your community, I want to reassure you that we remain committed to providing postal services in urban and rural communities across the country,” wrote Rob Klarich, acting local area superintendent for Canada Post.

A similar letter announces the reduction of Little Fort post office hours to 10:30 to 2 Mondays to Wednesdays and Fridays. Hours will remain 12 to 5 Thursdays.

In Heffley Creek, low customer volumes are again the reason, but a decision hasn’t yet been made to close the post office there on Saturdays and reduce weekday hours.

“We will be holding discussions with the local representative of our employees’ association, the Canadian Postmasters and Assistants Association (CPAA), and will communicate with you once these discussions have occurred,” said area manager Karen Plessis.

Savona and McLure are also under review for changes.