The special federal mediator has decided to temporarily suspend mediation between Canada Post and CUPW. After several intensive days of negotiation, his assessment is that parties remain too far apart on critical issues for mediation to be successful at this time. This pause in mediation activities will hopefully permit the parties to reassess their positions and return to the bargaining table with renewed resolve. I have requested that both parties meet at my office today. They will be told that, as in all disputes, they alone are responsible for the consequences of this conflict, and for its resolution. As soon as productive bargaining can begin anew, the special mediator will re-engage the parties. Canadians are counting on them to create these conditions quickly.