Canada Post looks to improve service in Iqaluit

It's long been a favourite pastime in Iqaluit complaining about long waits at the post office. But some city residents say the problem is getting worseand that something needs to be fixed.

Canada Post does not offer home delivery in Iqaluit. Residents must lease a box at the post office.But people who don't have a boxwait in line formail received through general delivery alongside those waiting to pick up parcels.

"You can stand in line, 20 people in front of you, half an hour or 45 minutes," says resident Joanne Ashley.

"I have a box, now," says residentRosie Shaimaiyuk, "but it took a few years to get."

A Canada Post spokesperson says boxes are leased for a year at a time, but many are deserted before the period is up.

"It's a transient population," says Phil Legault, the manager of media relations atCanada Post. "People will leave on a much shorter notice than what they anticipated."

Legault says Canada Post desperately wants to reduce the lines at the Iqaluit post office. The company isreviewing its P.O. box system, and plans to make improvements.

"Everything that involves the box rentals, we're taking into consideration," Legault says.

Other options being considered includeweekend service for parcel pick-up, or a separate service desk for general delivery customers.

Canada Post hopes to complete thereview of its Iqaluit operations by the end of May.