- Jean-Daniel Taverney (59) was dismissed without notice after 42 years of service at the post office – among other things because he delivered packages to the front door.
- The Vevey case caused a national stir, and the postal service announced that it would re-examine the case.
- Taverney is not very optimistic – but the Syndicom union is fighting for his reinstatement.
After Jean-Daniel Taverney has served the post office for 42 years released without notice – among other things because he brought packages to the front door. The case attracted widespread national attention. Now the 59-year-old is speaking to 20 Minutes about his termination and the support he has received since then.
“I’m pleasantly surprised,” says Jean-Daniel Taverney with a smile. Practically overnight, the postman from Vevey became known nationwide. His abrupt firing in February sparked a wave of support. The French-speaking Swiss man was fired, among other things, because he had brought packages to the front door instead of leaving them in common areas, as the postal service’s internal guidelines require.
How do you assess the postman’s dismissal after 42 years of service at the post office?
The case was publicized on Monday by the newspaper “24 Heures” and triggered hundreds of reactions over 20 minutes, with most readers sharply criticizing the Post’s actions. The company announced on Tuesday that it would review the case again – but Taverney is not optimistic, as he says in the interview.
In just two days you have involuntarily become a public figure. How are you, Mr. Taverney?
I never imagined there would be so much reaction and that my story would receive national attention. That’s crazy. A gentleman from the Zurich region, whom I don’t even know, even called me. Despite the language barrier, we were able to chat a bit and he told me he admired my attitude. The fact that someone who lives so far away and doesn’t know me would reach out specifically to tell me that – wow!
Former politicians from Vevey have also told me that they want to try to make a difference.
Have your former colleagues from the post office also contacted you?
Yes, very many. I received great support from them. They thanked me for fighting back. I would be happy if my situation helped to draw attention to their problems.
What problems do you mean?
Working conditions are constantly deteriorating. There is a lack of staff and overtime is piling up. There are currently only six postmen on duty in Vevey, although ten should actually be there.
The post office is a service for the population – and that is something important. This also includes, if possible, bringing a package to the apartment door.
Does this make you proud – especially your 84-year-old father – that you have always supported workers’ rights and union causes?
Yes. He didn’t say it directly, but when we spoke this week I definitely got that impression. (laughs) My whole family is keeping their fingers crossed for me.
Especially since you are now unemployed at 59 years old. However, the postal service has announced that it will re-examine your case.
Yes, of course I still hope, but my expectations are limited. I know my union will fight for me. The Post could also simply wait for public pressure and then drag the matter out. I don’t know it.
At the moment there is no appointment for an interview. Let’s put it this way: I’m not particularly optimistic.
Such statements could harm your case.
I can live with that – just like everything else that has happened so far.
Are you or is someone you know struggling with the job?
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David Ramseyer is a journalist with a rédaction genevoise de 20 minutes depuis 2014. The characteristic notamment of thematics lies in security, in mobility and in durable development. The Léman Bleu also works with Radio Lac.
