Consumer Council advise Royal Mail customers to make alternative arrangements ahead of strike

The Consumer Council has issued new advice for Northern Ireland households ahead of Royal Mail strike action later this week.

t’s after the Communication Workers Union (CWU) called on its members who collect, sort and deliver parcels and letters to take further strike action.

Action is expected to take place on Thursday October 13, Thursday October  20 and Tuesday October 20 following a dispute over pay across the UK. 

The action comes as the postal service heads into its busiest time of year in November and December, with a number of disruptions expected including to mail posted the day before and during days of strike action.

“We are encouraging consumers across Northern Ireland to plan ahead for expected strike action which will affect Royal Mail services,” said Michael Legg, head of postal services at the Consumer Council.

Mr Legg advised people to “plan ahead and post items well in advance of planned strike dates.”

The Council also advise households to “consider their needs” in regard to mail, asking those who may be affected if they “need to post over the strike period.”

“If you are sending urgent outgoing mail and you think it may be delayed, contact the recipient by telephone or other means to explain the situation”

“If you are sending something valuable and important by a Special Next Day Delivery service, Royal Mail is unable to guarantee it will not be delayed and you will not be able to claim any compensation,” said the Consumer Council. 

They have advised anyone expecting “urgent and important mail” such as medical appointments, prescriptions, benefit letters and bills to contact the sender to find out what alternative arrangements can be made to ensure you receive your items or that you receive vital information on time.

“If you are a consumer and you have bought something online and it is delayed, remember the item should be delivered within the time frame agreed with the retailer.

“If no time frame is agreed, the retailer must deliver at the very latest no more than 30 days from the date of purchase. If the item is not delivered on time, you can return the item, cancel your order and get a refund,” the Consumer Council said.