APWU, one of UNI Post & Logistics US affiliates, is trying to delay the US Postal Services controversial closure of 229 mail processing facilities which is due to start on July 1 and be completed by 2014.
Under cost-saving network consolidation plans, the US Postal Service wants to close nearly half of its 461 mail processing facilities across the country over the next three years. From July 1 onwards it would consolidate 48 mail processing facilities and reduce overnight mail delivery, followed by 92 more plants in early 2013. A further 89 facilities would be consolidated by the end of 2014.
The APWU attacked a modified USPS consolidation plan at a hearing before the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) on June 7, and notified the panel that the union will file a complaint seeking to stop the Postal Service from closing the mail processing facilities and reducing service until after the PRC issues an advisory opinion on the plan.
The USPS intends to implement the plan July 1. US Federal law requires the USPS to seek an advisory opinion from the PRC when it plans to make nationwide changes in service.
Given the complete lack of analysis and evidence, there appears to be no justification for managements claims of an estimated $1.2 billion in savings from Phase I of the plan, APWU counsel told the panel.
The APWU also insisted that the planned service cuts are unnecessary, and said the Postal Service is underestimating the loss of revenue the change in service will cause.
For more information;http://apwu.org/index2.htm
