Canada Post called a nation-wide lockout on Tuesday, effectively shutting down all operations after 12 days of rotating strikes by its postal workers. The union representing the 50,000 locked out employees is slamming Canada Post, arguing the decision is “irresponsible.” Canada Post said it had no choice but to stop all services, citing rapidly declining revenues and an “inability to deliver mail on a timely and safe basis.” The Crown corporation claims to have already lost $100 million. In a statement, Canada Post said it believes a lockout is the best way to reach an agreement with its workers. Federal Labour Minister Lisa Raitt is considering tabling legislation that would force workers back to their posts. The minister is already moving on such legislation to force striking Air Canada employees back to work.