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For release Nov. 2, 2017
Contact: Beth Allen or Amy Fetherolf, CWA Communications, 202-434-1168, ballen@cwa-union.org and afetherolf@cwa-union.orgStatement by CWA President Chris Shelton on the House Tax Plan
The Republican tax plan is a handout to millionaires, billionaires, and big corporations that will raise taxes on working families and give corporations new incentives to send more U.S. jobs overseas. Republicans and White House staff have been working overtime to spin this deal as a “middle class tax cut.” It’s not. And this tax plan is likely to get much worse for working families as the House Ways and Means Committee moves forward. What does this tax plan do to CWA working families?It limits the ability to deduct property taxes and completely eliminates the ability to deduct state and local taxes.It gets rid of tax deductions that help families pay education expenses. It will tax directly the value of employer-provided education assistance that at least 10,000 CWA members use.It restricts the amount of home mortgage interest that can be deducted, hurting CWA members and working people especially in areas like California, New York, New Jersey, and other states with high housing costs.It wipes out the ability of families to deduct their medical expenses.Any employer-provided child care benefit will be taxed, and assistance from employers to help CWA families adopt a child also will be taxed. This plan also adds at least $1.5 trillion to the federal debt over 10 years, and the budget framework Republicans passed already includes cuts in Medicare and Medicaid. Predictably, Republicans soon will start to complain about the budget deficit that they created and step up their attack on programs that working families rely on, like Medicare, Medicaid, health care, education and more. We cannot allow tax cuts for the wealthy to harm millions of working families. CWA and our allies are fighting back against this massive transfer of dollars from working families to the richest 1 percent. The Communications Workers of America represents 700,000 working men and women in telecommunications, media, airlines, public service and manufacturing.
Contact: Beth Allen or Amy Fetherolf, CWA Communications, 202-434-1168, ballen@cwa-union.org and afetherolf@cwa-union.orgStatement by CWA President Chris Shelton on the House Tax Plan
The Republican tax plan is a handout to millionaires, billionaires, and big corporations that will raise taxes on working families and give corporations new incentives to send more U.S. jobs overseas. Republicans and White House staff have been working overtime to spin this deal as a “middle class tax cut.” It’s not. And this tax plan is likely to get much worse for working families as the House Ways and Means Committee moves forward. What does this tax plan do to CWA working families?It limits the ability to deduct property taxes and completely eliminates the ability to deduct state and local taxes.It gets rid of tax deductions that help families pay education expenses. It will tax directly the value of employer-provided education assistance that at least 10,000 CWA members use.It restricts the amount of home mortgage interest that can be deducted, hurting CWA members and working people especially in areas like California, New York, New Jersey, and other states with high housing costs.It wipes out the ability of families to deduct their medical expenses.Any employer-provided child care benefit will be taxed, and assistance from employers to help CWA families adopt a child also will be taxed. This plan also adds at least $1.5 trillion to the federal debt over 10 years, and the budget framework Republicans passed already includes cuts in Medicare and Medicaid. Predictably, Republicans soon will start to complain about the budget deficit that they created and step up their attack on programs that working families rely on, like Medicare, Medicaid, health care, education and more. We cannot allow tax cuts for the wealthy to harm millions of working families. CWA and our allies are fighting back against this massive transfer of dollars from working families to the richest 1 percent. The Communications Workers of America represents 700,000 working men and women in telecommunications, media, airlines, public service and manufacturing.
For Immediate Release: August 1, 2015
Communications Workers and IBEW Leaders at Verizon Announce Plan to Stay on the Job and Continue Fight for a Fair ContractDespite $18 Billion in Profits in Last 18 Months, Verizon Still Insisting on Slashing Job Security, Health Care, and Retirement Security;Unions Will Continue to Fight for Good Jobs, FiOS Buildout, and Quality ServiceWith Company Refusing to Bargain Seriously, Union BargainingTeams Leave Round-the-Clock Talks; Unions Remain Prepared to BargainNew York – Leaders of the Communications Workers of America and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers announced that 39,000 Verizon workers up and down the East Coast will work without a contract when their collective bargaining agreement expires at midnight tonight, and continue their fight for a fair agreement while on the job.The union leaders also announced that they will leave the sites of round-the-clock bargaining in Philadelphia and Rye, NY, where union and management teams have been meeting since June 22nd in what has so far been a vain attempt to reach a contract. The unions have informed the company, however, that they are prepared to schedule regular bargaining sessions, and urged the company to begin bargaining constructively."Despite our best efforts, Verizon refuses to engage in serious bargaining towards a fair contract," said Dennis Trainor, Vice President for CWA District One, which represents Verizon workers in New Jersey, New York and Massachusetts. "Verizon has earned $1billion a month in profits over the last 18 months, and paid its top handful of executives $249 million over the last 5 years, but continues to insist on eliminating our job security and driving down our standard of living. We're not going to take it, and we're going to keep the fight going while we're on the job.""The company has barely moved off its initial June 22nd proposal that made outrageous demands of Verizon workers. If this company is serious about reaching an agreement, it needs to start bargaining constructively and now, "said Ed Mooney, Vice President for CWA District 2-13, which represents Verizon workers from Pennsylvania to Virginia. "Right now there isn't even anyone across the table from us who's got the power to make any decisions."Verizon has not significantly moved off its outrageous initial bargaining demands, made on June 22nd, which includes the following proposals:• Completely eliminating job security and gaining the right to transfer workers at will anywhere in the company's footprint.• Increasing workers' health care costs by thousands of dollars per person, despite the fact that negotiations in 2011-2012 have cut the company's health care costs by tens of millions of dollars over the life of the past contract.• Removing any restrictions on the company's right to contract out and offshore union jobs. This comes on top of Verizon's outsourcing of thousands of jobs in recent years.• Slashing retirement security.• Reducing overtime and differential payments.• Eliminating the Family Leave Care plan, which provides unpaid leave to care for sick family members or care for a newborn.• Eliminating the Accident Disability Plan, which provides benefits to workers injured on the job.At the same time, Verizon refuses to build out FiOS to many underserved communities up and down the East Coast, and has abandoned upkeep of the traditional landline network, leading to extensive service problems for consumers. In these negotiations, the union members' interest is linked directly to the public interest, since our jobs involve maintaining quality service on traditional landlines and building and servicing Verizon's state of the art FiOS broadband network. Even in New York City, where Verizon pledged to make FiOS available to every customer by the end of 2014, the City's Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications issued a report finding that the company was evading the buildout commitments it made under its 2008 video franchise agreement."86% of our members have voted to authorize a strike if necessary, but we're not going to walk into a trap set by Verizon. We'll strike when we think it is the right time to strike, and that is not tonight," Mooney added. "The ball is in their court – we are waiting for them to get serious."Background39,000 workers are currently negotiating new contracts at Verizon. Fortune Magazine ranked Verizon the 15th largest corporation in America in 2014, with revenues of $127 billion, profits of $9.6 billion, and market capitalization of $198.4 billion. Verizon had profits of $28 billion over the last five years, and paid its top five executives $249 million during that time.On July 21st, Verizon reported profits of $4.4 billion in 2Q2015 on revenues of $32.2 billion. This came on top of $4.2 billion in profits in 1Q2015, which means Verizon has made $1 billion in profits every month for the last 18 months. The company also reported that during the first six months of 2015 it has paid out over $9.3 billion to shareholders in dividends and stock buybacks, an increase of almost $5.8 billion over the first half of last year. In the Wireline division, Operating Cash Flow rose to 23.5%, and operating income doubled, from 2.6% to 5.3%. FiOS continues to expand and succeed, now constituting 79% of Verizon consumer revenues on the wireline side, and achieving penetration rates of 35.7% for video and 41.4% for internet in markets where it is competing.A damning audit of Verizon's FiOS rollout in New York City found that Verizon has failed to meet its promise to deliver high-speed fiber optic internet and television to everyone in the city who wanted it. During its negotiations for a city franchise, Verizon promised that the entire city would be wired with fiber optic cables by June 2014 and that after that date, everyone who wanted FiOS would get it within six months to a year. The audit found that despite claiming that it had wired the whole city by November 2014, Verizon systematically continues to refuse orders for service. The audit also found that Verizon stonewalled the audit process.In addition, rates for basic telephone service have increased in recent years, even as Verizon has refused to expand their broadband services into many cities and rural communities, and service quality has greatly deteriorated. Verizon's declining service quality especially impacts customers who cannot afford more advanced cable services, or who live in areas with few options for cable or wireless services.In 2005, New York's Public Service Commission (PSC) eliminated automatic fines for Verizon's telephone service quality failures, reasoning that "competition" would improve services. Instead, service quality plunged. In the 3rd quarter of 2010, Verizon cleared only 1.2% of out of service complaints within 24 hours, almost 79 percentage points lower than the PSC's 80% requirement. Rather than reverse course, the PSC changed its measurements, cutting out 92% of customers from service quality measurements and consolidating 28 repair service bureaus into 5 regions. On paper, terrible service quality was almost miraculously transformed. In reality, service quality continued to decline.39,000 workers are currently negotiating new contracts at Verizon. Fortune Magazine ranked Verizon the 15th largest corporation in America in 2014, with revenues of $127 billion, profits of $9.6 billion, and market capitalization of $198.4 billion. Verizon had profits of $28 billion over the last five years, and paid its top five executives $249 million during that time.On July 21st, Verizon reported profits of $4.4 billion in 2Q2015 on revenues of $32.2 billion. The company also reported that during the first six months of 2015 it has paid out over $9.3 billion to shareholders in dividends and stock buybacks, an increase of almost $5.8 billion over the first half of last year. In the Wireline division, Operating Cash Flow rose to 23.5%, and operating income doubled, from 2.6% to 5.3%. FiOS continues to expand and succeed, now constituting 79% of Verizon consumer revenues on the wireline side, and achieving penetration rates of 35.7% for video and 41.4% for internet in markets where it is competing.
Communications Workers and IBEW Leaders at Verizon Announce Plan to Stay on the Job and Continue Fight for a Fair ContractDespite $18 Billion in Profits in Last 18 Months, Verizon Still Insisting on Slashing Job Security, Health Care, and Retirement Security;Unions Will Continue to Fight for Good Jobs, FiOS Buildout, and Quality ServiceWith Company Refusing to Bargain Seriously, Union BargainingTeams Leave Round-the-Clock Talks; Unions Remain Prepared to BargainNew York – Leaders of the Communications Workers of America and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers announced that 39,000 Verizon workers up and down the East Coast will work without a contract when their collective bargaining agreement expires at midnight tonight, and continue their fight for a fair agreement while on the job.The union leaders also announced that they will leave the sites of round-the-clock bargaining in Philadelphia and Rye, NY, where union and management teams have been meeting since June 22nd in what has so far been a vain attempt to reach a contract. The unions have informed the company, however, that they are prepared to schedule regular bargaining sessions, and urged the company to begin bargaining constructively."Despite our best efforts, Verizon refuses to engage in serious bargaining towards a fair contract," said Dennis Trainor, Vice President for CWA District One, which represents Verizon workers in New Jersey, New York and Massachusetts. "Verizon has earned $1billion a month in profits over the last 18 months, and paid its top handful of executives $249 million over the last 5 years, but continues to insist on eliminating our job security and driving down our standard of living. We're not going to take it, and we're going to keep the fight going while we're on the job.""The company has barely moved off its initial June 22nd proposal that made outrageous demands of Verizon workers. If this company is serious about reaching an agreement, it needs to start bargaining constructively and now, "said Ed Mooney, Vice President for CWA District 2-13, which represents Verizon workers from Pennsylvania to Virginia. "Right now there isn't even anyone across the table from us who's got the power to make any decisions."Verizon has not significantly moved off its outrageous initial bargaining demands, made on June 22nd, which includes the following proposals:• Completely eliminating job security and gaining the right to transfer workers at will anywhere in the company's footprint.• Increasing workers' health care costs by thousands of dollars per person, despite the fact that negotiations in 2011-2012 have cut the company's health care costs by tens of millions of dollars over the life of the past contract.• Removing any restrictions on the company's right to contract out and offshore union jobs. This comes on top of Verizon's outsourcing of thousands of jobs in recent years.• Slashing retirement security.• Reducing overtime and differential payments.• Eliminating the Family Leave Care plan, which provides unpaid leave to care for sick family members or care for a newborn.• Eliminating the Accident Disability Plan, which provides benefits to workers injured on the job.At the same time, Verizon refuses to build out FiOS to many underserved communities up and down the East Coast, and has abandoned upkeep of the traditional landline network, leading to extensive service problems for consumers. In these negotiations, the union members' interest is linked directly to the public interest, since our jobs involve maintaining quality service on traditional landlines and building and servicing Verizon's state of the art FiOS broadband network. Even in New York City, where Verizon pledged to make FiOS available to every customer by the end of 2014, the City's Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications issued a report finding that the company was evading the buildout commitments it made under its 2008 video franchise agreement."86% of our members have voted to authorize a strike if necessary, but we're not going to walk into a trap set by Verizon. We'll strike when we think it is the right time to strike, and that is not tonight," Mooney added. "The ball is in their court – we are waiting for them to get serious."Background39,000 workers are currently negotiating new contracts at Verizon. Fortune Magazine ranked Verizon the 15th largest corporation in America in 2014, with revenues of $127 billion, profits of $9.6 billion, and market capitalization of $198.4 billion. Verizon had profits of $28 billion over the last five years, and paid its top five executives $249 million during that time.On July 21st, Verizon reported profits of $4.4 billion in 2Q2015 on revenues of $32.2 billion. This came on top of $4.2 billion in profits in 1Q2015, which means Verizon has made $1 billion in profits every month for the last 18 months. The company also reported that during the first six months of 2015 it has paid out over $9.3 billion to shareholders in dividends and stock buybacks, an increase of almost $5.8 billion over the first half of last year. In the Wireline division, Operating Cash Flow rose to 23.5%, and operating income doubled, from 2.6% to 5.3%. FiOS continues to expand and succeed, now constituting 79% of Verizon consumer revenues on the wireline side, and achieving penetration rates of 35.7% for video and 41.4% for internet in markets where it is competing.A damning audit of Verizon's FiOS rollout in New York City found that Verizon has failed to meet its promise to deliver high-speed fiber optic internet and television to everyone in the city who wanted it. During its negotiations for a city franchise, Verizon promised that the entire city would be wired with fiber optic cables by June 2014 and that after that date, everyone who wanted FiOS would get it within six months to a year. The audit found that despite claiming that it had wired the whole city by November 2014, Verizon systematically continues to refuse orders for service. The audit also found that Verizon stonewalled the audit process.In addition, rates for basic telephone service have increased in recent years, even as Verizon has refused to expand their broadband services into many cities and rural communities, and service quality has greatly deteriorated. Verizon's declining service quality especially impacts customers who cannot afford more advanced cable services, or who live in areas with few options for cable or wireless services.In 2005, New York's Public Service Commission (PSC) eliminated automatic fines for Verizon's telephone service quality failures, reasoning that "competition" would improve services. Instead, service quality plunged. In the 3rd quarter of 2010, Verizon cleared only 1.2% of out of service complaints within 24 hours, almost 79 percentage points lower than the PSC's 80% requirement. Rather than reverse course, the PSC changed its measurements, cutting out 92% of customers from service quality measurements and consolidating 28 repair service bureaus into 5 regions. On paper, terrible service quality was almost miraculously transformed. In reality, service quality continued to decline.39,000 workers are currently negotiating new contracts at Verizon. Fortune Magazine ranked Verizon the 15th largest corporation in America in 2014, with revenues of $127 billion, profits of $9.6 billion, and market capitalization of $198.4 billion. Verizon had profits of $28 billion over the last five years, and paid its top five executives $249 million during that time.On July 21st, Verizon reported profits of $4.4 billion in 2Q2015 on revenues of $32.2 billion. The company also reported that during the first six months of 2015 it has paid out over $9.3 billion to shareholders in dividends and stock buybacks, an increase of almost $5.8 billion over the first half of last year. In the Wireline division, Operating Cash Flow rose to 23.5%, and operating income doubled, from 2.6% to 5.3%. FiOS continues to expand and succeed, now constituting 79% of Verizon consumer revenues on the wireline side, and achieving penetration rates of 35.7% for video and 41.4% for internet in markets where it is competing.
June 26, 2015 Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today is a very sad day for CWA Local 1400 and FairPoint Members.The Officers and Executive Board are very disappointed with what FairPoint has done to their business, and the layoff of the great men and women that have built this company and helped with its survival. After a 4 month strike this is clearly retaliation by a company that doesn’t respect any of its employees, customers or the communities they serve. CWA Local 1400 expects to receive the final layoff list from FairPoint in the next couple of days. We absolutely believe the Company violated many aspects of the layoff provision, including the modification of employee’s seniority dates. We have every intent of challenging the entire layoff/office closing as outlined in the contract through expedited arbitration. Per the new contract, this issue will go directly to arbitration and does not have to go through the normal grievance process. We will update members as soon as the arbitration is scheduled. This whole process has been very difficult for every member and their families. Please respect each other and remember FairPoint made the decision to declare the surplus/office closing. We are all Union Brothers and Sisters and we are NOT going to give up our fight for fairness! In Solidarity, Don TrementozziPresidentCWA Local 1400
June 4, 2015 CWAer Mike O’Day Reminds Vermonters of Bernie Sanders’ Support of FairPoint Strikers
On a sun-dappled day, Lake Champlain shimmering behind him, Mike O'Day gave one of the major introductions of Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) in Vermont last week. O'Day, vice president of CWA Local 1400's District 6, which covers Vermont, told the crowd of several thousand people exactly why he came to introduce Sanders.Michael O'Day, an officer of CWA Local 1400, tells crowd how Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders stood with FairPoint workers. Sanders was making the official announcement of his 2016 presidential bid."Bernie's message is clear," O'Day said. "A level playing field for the American worker and no trade deals that benefit other countries and not the U.S. first. NAFTA was a disaster for the American worker and the Trans-Pacific Partnership is much worse."He continued:"This past winter, we were on strike against FairPoint for four-and-half long, cold months on Hinesburg Road. Our fight was textbook, Wall Street dictating a rate of return at the expense of workers. After the contract expired, FairPoint imposed the elimination of all retirement benefits, healthcare, pensions and job security language."There wasn't a week that passed without Bernie checking in on our well-being. He asked to host a Thanksgiving Dinner for all the strikers and their families in Vermont. He wanted to make sure that everyone had a great holiday meal. There were 200 of us at Burlington High School that night. Bernie met with every family and let us know that he supported our decision to strike and would help us in any way he could. I can't thank him, Phil, David and the rest of his staff, enough."Nearly 2,000 CWA and IBEW members in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont went back to work at FairPoint Communications after enduring a historic 18-week strike and gaining new contracts that provided improvements in health care, restrictions on outsourcing and elimination of two-tier wages.
On a sun-dappled day, Lake Champlain shimmering behind him, Mike O'Day gave one of the major introductions of Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) in Vermont last week. O'Day, vice president of CWA Local 1400's District 6, which covers Vermont, told the crowd of several thousand people exactly why he came to introduce Sanders.Michael O'Day, an officer of CWA Local 1400, tells crowd how Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders stood with FairPoint workers. Sanders was making the official announcement of his 2016 presidential bid."Bernie's message is clear," O'Day said. "A level playing field for the American worker and no trade deals that benefit other countries and not the U.S. first. NAFTA was a disaster for the American worker and the Trans-Pacific Partnership is much worse."He continued:"This past winter, we were on strike against FairPoint for four-and-half long, cold months on Hinesburg Road. Our fight was textbook, Wall Street dictating a rate of return at the expense of workers. After the contract expired, FairPoint imposed the elimination of all retirement benefits, healthcare, pensions and job security language."There wasn't a week that passed without Bernie checking in on our well-being. He asked to host a Thanksgiving Dinner for all the strikers and their families in Vermont. He wanted to make sure that everyone had a great holiday meal. There were 200 of us at Burlington High School that night. Bernie met with every family and let us know that he supported our decision to strike and would help us in any way he could. I can't thank him, Phil, David and the rest of his staff, enough."Nearly 2,000 CWA and IBEW members in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont went back to work at FairPoint Communications after enduring a historic 18-week strike and gaining new contracts that provided improvements in health care, restrictions on outsourcing and elimination of two-tier wages.
Michael O'Day, an officer of CWA Local 1400, tells crowd how Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders stood with FairPoint workers.
May 15, 2015For Immediate Release, May 15, 2015 FairPoint Announces Layoff of More Than 10% of Northern New England WorkforceUnions Say Cuts Will Further Erode Service Quality
AUGUSTA, ME — FairPoint Communications announced today that it will lay off 219 employees in its northern New England operations, which represents more than 10% of its workforce in the region. Members of both the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the Communications Workers of America (CWA) in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont will be affected.
Union leaders expressed disappointment at the news and said that the cuts will further erode already severely compromised service quality for the region's telecommunications customers. "FairPoint has failed to meet service quality benchmarks for years, and cutting its skilled workforce by more than 10% will only make matters worse," said Peter McLaughlin, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2327 in Maine. "We are disgusted by this company's total disregard for its employees and customers."
FairPoint has consistently sought to avoid being held accountable for service quality failures in the region. The company is supporting bills in the Maine legislature that would eliminate its obligation to provide service to customers who rely solely on a landline, or Provider of Last Resort (POLR) customers. It also supports an amendment that would eliminate the Maine Public Utilities Commission's ability to investigate service quality failures or to enforce standards. An investigation of the company's service quality failures is ongoing in Vermont.
"This announcement is deeply disappointing and illustrates yet again that FairPoint executives are beholden to the greedy Wall Street hedge funds who own the company, not to our customers," said Don Trementozzi, President of CWA Local 1400.
Union leaders assured members that they would meet with the company immediately to ensure that the layoff process is implemented according to the collective bargaining agreements. "We will continue to fight these cuts and support our members and their families through this difficult time," said Glenn Brackett, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2320 in New Hampshire.
"Our hearts go out to the hard-working men and women who will lose their jobs because of FairPoint's mismanagement and greed," said Mike Spillane, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2326 in Vermont. "Many of these folks have devoted years to a career with the phone company and they are proud of it. They are valued members of our communities who were willing to make incredible sacrifices during our historic strike. They fought not just for their own jobs, but for the quality service that our customers deserve. They don't deserve this." The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) System Council T-9 includes local unions in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont and represents nearly 1,700 employees at FairPoint Communications. The Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1400 represents nearly 300 FairPoint employees in the three states. For more information, visit www.FairnessAtFairpoint.com.
AUGUSTA, ME — FairPoint Communications announced today that it will lay off 219 employees in its northern New England operations, which represents more than 10% of its workforce in the region. Members of both the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the Communications Workers of America (CWA) in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont will be affected.
Union leaders expressed disappointment at the news and said that the cuts will further erode already severely compromised service quality for the region's telecommunications customers. "FairPoint has failed to meet service quality benchmarks for years, and cutting its skilled workforce by more than 10% will only make matters worse," said Peter McLaughlin, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2327 in Maine. "We are disgusted by this company's total disregard for its employees and customers."
FairPoint has consistently sought to avoid being held accountable for service quality failures in the region. The company is supporting bills in the Maine legislature that would eliminate its obligation to provide service to customers who rely solely on a landline, or Provider of Last Resort (POLR) customers. It also supports an amendment that would eliminate the Maine Public Utilities Commission's ability to investigate service quality failures or to enforce standards. An investigation of the company's service quality failures is ongoing in Vermont.
"This announcement is deeply disappointing and illustrates yet again that FairPoint executives are beholden to the greedy Wall Street hedge funds who own the company, not to our customers," said Don Trementozzi, President of CWA Local 1400.
Union leaders assured members that they would meet with the company immediately to ensure that the layoff process is implemented according to the collective bargaining agreements. "We will continue to fight these cuts and support our members and their families through this difficult time," said Glenn Brackett, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2320 in New Hampshire.
"Our hearts go out to the hard-working men and women who will lose their jobs because of FairPoint's mismanagement and greed," said Mike Spillane, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2326 in Vermont. "Many of these folks have devoted years to a career with the phone company and they are proud of it. They are valued members of our communities who were willing to make incredible sacrifices during our historic strike. They fought not just for their own jobs, but for the quality service that our customers deserve. They don't deserve this." The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) System Council T-9 includes local unions in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont and represents nearly 1,700 employees at FairPoint Communications. The Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1400 represents nearly 300 FairPoint employees in the three states. For more information, visit www.FairnessAtFairpoint.com.
May 15, 2015Unions Respond to FairPoint Surplus Announcement
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
We were extremely disappointed and disheartened to learn today that the company has announced a surplus of approximately 260 positions across 17 states. Please note, we anticipate the number surplussed in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont to be fewer than 260.
We are still gathering details about the situation and will provide accurate information as quickly as possible. We will meet with management immediately to establish the process by which the surplus will be implemented and to hold the company accountable to our collective bargaining agreement.
We firmly believe this surplus is unnecessary and will further erode the already compromised quality of service for our customers. The company clearly cannot provide adequate service at the current staffing levels. As we all know, the company has been mismanaged from the moment FairPoint took over the business in 2008. Their allegiance is to the Wall Street hedge fund owners whose only priorities are higher share prices and a profitable sale of the northern New England business. Our priority has always been to fight for good jobs and quality service in our region, and that struggle continues.
As soon as we have additional details about the positions to be surplussed and the process, we will communicate them to you. In addition, we will work with the state AFL-CIOs to provide rapid response advice on unemployment and other benefits for those who will be laid off.
In solidarity,
Peter McLaughlinBusiness Manager, IBEW Local 2327Chair, IBEW System Council T-9
Don TrementozziPresident, CWA Local 1400
Glenn BrackettBusiness Manager, IBEW Local 2320
Mike SpillaneBusiness Manager, IBEW Local 2326
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
We were extremely disappointed and disheartened to learn today that the company has announced a surplus of approximately 260 positions across 17 states. Please note, we anticipate the number surplussed in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont to be fewer than 260.
We are still gathering details about the situation and will provide accurate information as quickly as possible. We will meet with management immediately to establish the process by which the surplus will be implemented and to hold the company accountable to our collective bargaining agreement.
We firmly believe this surplus is unnecessary and will further erode the already compromised quality of service for our customers. The company clearly cannot provide adequate service at the current staffing levels. As we all know, the company has been mismanaged from the moment FairPoint took over the business in 2008. Their allegiance is to the Wall Street hedge fund owners whose only priorities are higher share prices and a profitable sale of the northern New England business. Our priority has always been to fight for good jobs and quality service in our region, and that struggle continues.
As soon as we have additional details about the positions to be surplussed and the process, we will communicate them to you. In addition, we will work with the state AFL-CIOs to provide rapid response advice on unemployment and other benefits for those who will be laid off.
In solidarity,
Peter McLaughlinBusiness Manager, IBEW Local 2327Chair, IBEW System Council T-9
Don TrementozziPresident, CWA Local 1400
Glenn BrackettBusiness Manager, IBEW Local 2320
Mike SpillaneBusiness Manager, IBEW Local 2326
April 26, 2015
Labor council honors Michaud, Scontras, FairPoint unions LEWISTON — The Western Maine Labor Council held it's ninth annual Worker's Memorial Day Dinner on Sunday evening at the Franco Center, honoring Mike Michaud, Charles Scontras and the workers of FairPoint for their resilience during their four-month strike.…The Worker's Solidarity Award went to FairPoint members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 2327 and the Communication Workers of America.For 131 days, FairPoint workers stood on the picket lines through the long winter with 1,400 members in all leading a campaign on the roadsides and in social media with their Facebook page, Fairness at FairPoint. After a federal mediator was brought in, both sides sat down and workers returned to their jobs in late February…See full article: http://www.sunjournal.com/news/lewiston-auburn/2015/04/26/labor-council-honors-michaud-scontras-fairpoint-unions/1693465
Labor council honors Michaud, Scontras, FairPoint unions LEWISTON — The Western Maine Labor Council held it's ninth annual Worker's Memorial Day Dinner on Sunday evening at the Franco Center, honoring Mike Michaud, Charles Scontras and the workers of FairPoint for their resilience during their four-month strike.…The Worker's Solidarity Award went to FairPoint members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 2327 and the Communication Workers of America.For 131 days, FairPoint workers stood on the picket lines through the long winter with 1,400 members in all leading a campaign on the roadsides and in social media with their Facebook page, Fairness at FairPoint. After a federal mediator was brought in, both sides sat down and workers returned to their jobs in late February…See full article: http://www.sunjournal.com/news/lewiston-auburn/2015/04/26/labor-council-honors-michaud-scontras-fairpoint-unions/1693465
Douglas McIntire/Sun JournalMembers of the unions representing FairPoint receive the Workers Solidarity Award at the Worker's Memorial Day Dinner at the Franco Center on Sunday evening.
April 7, 2015 Unity is the key to victory - nothing in our contract came for free. 2015 bargaining will be no different.We will all need to stand up to Verizon in unity to win a fair and just contract.Now is the time to get ready:First, like “Stand Up To Verizon” on Facebook for pictures, updates, and to join the conversation.Then, on Thursday, April 9th, informational picketing will begin throughout the Verizon East footprint.On that day, check your email to join your coworkers for a virtual Facebook picket line. To get our message out to as many people as possible, we will send you an image to share on Facebook. It matches the signs we’ll be holding at pickets in real life, demanding good jobs at Verizon.Together, we will create our first virtual picket!Let’s get ready for August 1, 2015.
UNION MEMBERS APPROVE AGREEMENT WITH FAIRPOINT Workers to Return to Work on Wednesday, February 25 AUGUSTA, ME—After three days of voting, IBEW and CWA members in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont have ratified tentative agreements with FairPoint Communications. The new agreements protect good jobs and ensure quality telecommunications service for New England communities. “This is great news for our members, their families, and our communities,” said Peter McLaughlin, chair of the union bargaining committee and Business Manager of IBEW Local 2327 in Maine. “Our members remained united and committed to this fight for more than four months and today we have a fair deal that will bring them back to work and good service back to our communities.” After initially demanding $700 million in concessions from workers, FairPoint implemented the terms of its proposals on August 28 saying the parties had reached an impasse in bargaining. The implemented terms included a dramatic increase in health care costs, a two-tier wage structure that would have paid new hires as much as 20 percent less to do the same jobs as current workers, and a greatly increased ability to outsource union members’ work to low-wage contractors from outside our region. Ultimately, FairPoint agreed to a union-administered health insurance plan with better benefits that will cost workers and the company less. FairPoint also agreed to eliminate the two-tier wage structure. “This agreement is a win for our members and for future FairPoint employees,” said Don Trementozzi, President of CWA Local 1400. “We went on strike last October because we are committed to keeping good, middle-class jobs in New England. Our members walked the lines for more than four months, not just for themselves, but for future generations. Our success will benefit FairPoint workers—and New England’s working families—for years to come.” The unions also successfully negotiated to protect jobs from outsourcing. During the strike, FairPoint brought in replacement contract workers to do the jobs of experienced, union workers. Complaints skyrocketed in all three states as customers experienced inadequate service, delays for repairs and installations, and increased wait times when calling customer service. “Our communities have seen the results of outsourcing these last four months, and it has not been pretty,” said Glenn Brackett, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2320 in New Hampshire. “There’s no replacement for well-trained, skilled workers. Our members are eager to get back to work and get our network functioning the way it should.” Approximately 1,800 FairPoint workers in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont launched their strike on October 17. The longest strike in the United States in 2014, workers picketed for 18 weeks. “Our members are incredible. They walked the picket lines in blizzards and sub-zero temperatures. They stayed strong and they stayed together,” said Mike Spillane, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2326 in Vermont. The strikers enjoyed widespread support from their communities and from thousands of allies around the world. Lawmakers in all three states walked the picket lines with members; individuals delivered hot beverages and snacks to picketers; and people and organizations contributed more than $350,000 to the Solidarity Fund to provide financial aid for striking workers to pay for everything from prescription medicine to heating oil. “The support we’ve received over the past four months has been overwhelming,” said McLaughlin. “Union brothers and sisters from all over the country sent financial help and messages of support. And our friends and neighbors right here in New England showed us their appreciation for our sacrifice every day. They knew that our members were not just striking to protect their own jobs, but that they were fighting for good jobs and quality service for all of New England.” The new contracts will be in effect until August 4, 2018. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) System Council T-9 includes local unions in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont and represents nearly 1,500 employees at FairPoint Communications. The Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1400 represents nearly 300 FairPoint employees in the three states. For more information, visit www.FairnessAtFairpoint.com.
http://www.nh1.comDec 19, 2014 11:48 AM
1,000 toys donated for children of striking FairPoint workersBy: Siobhan LopezNH1.com
PORTSMOUTH - Christmas came early for the hundreds of striking FairPoint employees who have children. The union workers have been on strike for 10 weeks and many weren't sure what their holiday season would be like. In the matter of just a few weeks, more than 1,000 donations have come in from across the world to help make sure these families can have a nice Christmas.The outpouring of support was clear at the CWA union hall in Portsmouth Friday, as striking workers loaded up trucks and vans to deliver the toys to families in New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont, the three states served by FairPoint workers.Many who are receiving the gifts for their kids are overwhelmed. They say they are usually the ones holding drives for people in need during the holidays.1,700 FairPoint workers walked off the job on October 17th. They say they won't go back to work until the company negotiates a contract with them. The company has since hired replacemnt workers.
1,000 toys donated for children of striking FairPoint workersBy: Siobhan LopezNH1.com
PORTSMOUTH - Christmas came early for the hundreds of striking FairPoint employees who have children. The union workers have been on strike for 10 weeks and many weren't sure what their holiday season would be like. In the matter of just a few weeks, more than 1,000 donations have come in from across the world to help make sure these families can have a nice Christmas.The outpouring of support was clear at the CWA union hall in Portsmouth Friday, as striking workers loaded up trucks and vans to deliver the toys to families in New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont, the three states served by FairPoint workers.Many who are receiving the gifts for their kids are overwhelmed. They say they are usually the ones holding drives for people in need during the holidays.1,700 FairPoint workers walked off the job on October 17th. They say they won't go back to work until the company negotiates a contract with them. The company has since hired replacemnt workers.
A GREAT BIG THANK YOUfrom all the FairPoint Membersto everyone who helped give them aVERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
FairPoint members support United Steel Workers in Waterville Maine. On the line was our next Maine Senator Bellows!!
October 2, 2014AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka met with members of our Bargaining Team, Jenn Nappi of IBEW Local 2327 and Don Trementozzi of CWA Local 1400, to discuss the company's assault on working families in northern New England and to strategize ways to enlist union members around the country in our fight for fairness. Matt Schlobohm and Don Berry of the Maine AFL-CIO also joined the meeting. Thank you President Trumka!
September 23, 2014For immediate release: September 23, 2014
Major Hedge Fund Owner and FairPoint Investor Says Company Must Treat Workers FairlyUnions Call on Angelo, Gordon to Push Company to Return to Bargaining
Augusta, ME—On September 5th, Angelo, Gordon & Co. president Lawrence Schloss responded to New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s request that the hedge fund’s CEO urge FairPoint “to find common ground with its workforce” in the current labor dispute in northern New England. In addition to owning almost 20 percent of FairPoint stock, Angelo, Gordon & Co. has a designee on FairPoint’s board of directors.DiNapoli is sole Trustee of the New York State Common Retirement Fund (CRF), the nation’s third largest public pension fund. The CRF is an investor in the AG Super Fund, a hedge fund managed by Angelo, Gordon & Co.According to Schloss, “Angelo, Gordon agrees with [DiNapoli’s] belief that a company with a constructive relationship with its workers will become a stronger, more profitable and more enduring enterprise.” Furthermore, Schloss said the hedge fund owners believe that, “FairPoint must treat its workers fairly and in compliance with all laws.”Schloss went on to say that the hedge fund owners have communicated to FairPoint that “we are against the termination of defined benefit and retiree health plans where there are other cost reductions available that can obtain similar financial savings.” Schloss concluded, “Angelo, Gordon has made clear its desire that both the company and the employees be willing to make the concessions necessary to reach a long-term agreement.”Leaders of the unions representing almost 2,000 members at FairPoint Communications in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont welcomed Schloss’s intervention on behalf of FairPoint’s largest investor, but called on him to take additional action to resolve the dispute. “While we are pleased that Mr. Schloss has responded to Mr. DiNapoli’s concerns, we call on Angelo, Gordon to go further,” said Peter McLaughlin, chairman of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) System Council T9 and co-chairman of the unions’ bargaining committee. “Our bargaining team has been willing to compromise with the company from the beginning, offering counter proposals that would save the company more than $200 million, but the company has rejected every substantive proposal we’ve put forward. We urge executives at Angelo, Gordon to use their influence as the largest owner of FairPoint stock to persuade company negotiators to return to the table and engage in meaningful bargaining.”Union leaders said they would continue to educate investors, the board of directors, and the public about the company’s attempts to destroy good jobs in northern New England and the impact on customers of FairPoint’s indiscriminate cost cutting. “Mr. Schloss claims that the company wants a swift and fair resolution, and maybe that’s what FairPoint CEO Paul Sunu has told his board of directors and his biggest investors,” said Don Trementozzi, president of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1400 and co-chair of the unions’ bargaining committee. “However, if that were true, why has the company abandoned the bargaining process after months of refusing to compromise on any proposal? If that were true, why has the company imposed terms and conditions on its workers that allow them to outsource all our jobs to out-of-state and foreign contractors? Actions speak louder than words. If Angelo, Gordon really wants a swift resolution, it should urge FairPoint to return to the bargaining table immediately and bargain in good faith.”IBEW System Council T9 includes local unions in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont and represents nearly 1,700 employees at FairPoint Communications. CWA Local 1400 represents nearly 300 FairPoint employees in the three states.
Major Hedge Fund Owner and FairPoint Investor Says Company Must Treat Workers FairlyUnions Call on Angelo, Gordon to Push Company to Return to Bargaining
Augusta, ME—On September 5th, Angelo, Gordon & Co. president Lawrence Schloss responded to New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s request that the hedge fund’s CEO urge FairPoint “to find common ground with its workforce” in the current labor dispute in northern New England. In addition to owning almost 20 percent of FairPoint stock, Angelo, Gordon & Co. has a designee on FairPoint’s board of directors.DiNapoli is sole Trustee of the New York State Common Retirement Fund (CRF), the nation’s third largest public pension fund. The CRF is an investor in the AG Super Fund, a hedge fund managed by Angelo, Gordon & Co.According to Schloss, “Angelo, Gordon agrees with [DiNapoli’s] belief that a company with a constructive relationship with its workers will become a stronger, more profitable and more enduring enterprise.” Furthermore, Schloss said the hedge fund owners believe that, “FairPoint must treat its workers fairly and in compliance with all laws.”Schloss went on to say that the hedge fund owners have communicated to FairPoint that “we are against the termination of defined benefit and retiree health plans where there are other cost reductions available that can obtain similar financial savings.” Schloss concluded, “Angelo, Gordon has made clear its desire that both the company and the employees be willing to make the concessions necessary to reach a long-term agreement.”Leaders of the unions representing almost 2,000 members at FairPoint Communications in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont welcomed Schloss’s intervention on behalf of FairPoint’s largest investor, but called on him to take additional action to resolve the dispute. “While we are pleased that Mr. Schloss has responded to Mr. DiNapoli’s concerns, we call on Angelo, Gordon to go further,” said Peter McLaughlin, chairman of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) System Council T9 and co-chairman of the unions’ bargaining committee. “Our bargaining team has been willing to compromise with the company from the beginning, offering counter proposals that would save the company more than $200 million, but the company has rejected every substantive proposal we’ve put forward. We urge executives at Angelo, Gordon to use their influence as the largest owner of FairPoint stock to persuade company negotiators to return to the table and engage in meaningful bargaining.”Union leaders said they would continue to educate investors, the board of directors, and the public about the company’s attempts to destroy good jobs in northern New England and the impact on customers of FairPoint’s indiscriminate cost cutting. “Mr. Schloss claims that the company wants a swift and fair resolution, and maybe that’s what FairPoint CEO Paul Sunu has told his board of directors and his biggest investors,” said Don Trementozzi, president of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1400 and co-chair of the unions’ bargaining committee. “However, if that were true, why has the company abandoned the bargaining process after months of refusing to compromise on any proposal? If that were true, why has the company imposed terms and conditions on its workers that allow them to outsource all our jobs to out-of-state and foreign contractors? Actions speak louder than words. If Angelo, Gordon really wants a swift resolution, it should urge FairPoint to return to the bargaining table immediately and bargain in good faith.”IBEW System Council T9 includes local unions in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont and represents nearly 1,700 employees at FairPoint Communications. CWA Local 1400 represents nearly 300 FairPoint employees in the three states.
September 9, 2014For immediate release: September 9, 2014
New York State Comptroller Intervenes In FairPoint Labor DisputeCalls on Major Hedge Fund Owner and FairPoint Investor to Ensure Fair Treatment of Workers
Augusta, ME—On September 3rd, Thomas DiNapoli, Comptroller of the State of New York, wrote to John Angelo, CEO of Angelo, Gordon & Co.—owner of almost 20 percent of FairPoint stock—to express his concern about reports that FairPoint has violated federal law in bargaining with representatives of almost 2,000 members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the Communications Workers of America (CWA) in northern New England.DiNapoli is sole Trustee of the New York State Common Retirement Fund (CRF), the nation’s third largest public pension fund, which invests the assets of more than one million members, retirees, and beneficiaries of the retirement system in New York State.The CRF is an investor in the AG Super Fund, a hedge fund managed by Angelo, Gordon & Co.In addition to owning almost 20 percent of FairPoint stock, Angelo, Gordon & Co. has a designee on FairPoint’s Board of Directors.According to Mr. DiNapoli’s letter, “In our experience as a long-term institutional investor, where a company has a constructive relationship with its workers and provides sustainable retirement benefits, the company becomes a stronger, more profitable, and more enduring enterprise.”He went on to say that, “We are, therefore, concerned by publicly reported allegations that FairPoint has not acted in good faith and has violated federal law; specifically, assertions that FairPoint improperly declared an impasse in collective bargaining and unlawfully imposed” the terms of its final contract proposals.Union leaders welcomed Mr. DiNapoli’s intervention. “Angelo, Gordon is the largest FairPoint stockholder and has tremendous influence over management’s decisions. We hope that Mr. Angelo takes seriously this intervention by Mr. DiNapoli, who represents one of the largest pension funds in the US,” said Peter McLaughlin, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2327 and chair of the unions’ bargaining committee.The Chairman of FairPoint’s Board of Directors, Edward Horowitz, recently informed an advisor to union leaders that members of the Board have been briefed on the company’s bargaining position and that the Board fully endorses that position.“It is disappointing to hear that members of FairPoint’s Board of Directors support the company’s attacks on working families across northern New England,” said Don Trementozzi, President of CWA Local 1400. “We believe that our members are the reason this company emerged from bankruptcy and has begun to recover after its truly ill-advised purchase of Verizon. We will continue to educate investors like the CRF about this company’s decision to put short-term profits above the long-term interests of its workers, customers, and their communities.”
New York State Comptroller Intervenes In FairPoint Labor DisputeCalls on Major Hedge Fund Owner and FairPoint Investor to Ensure Fair Treatment of Workers
Augusta, ME—On September 3rd, Thomas DiNapoli, Comptroller of the State of New York, wrote to John Angelo, CEO of Angelo, Gordon & Co.—owner of almost 20 percent of FairPoint stock—to express his concern about reports that FairPoint has violated federal law in bargaining with representatives of almost 2,000 members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the Communications Workers of America (CWA) in northern New England.DiNapoli is sole Trustee of the New York State Common Retirement Fund (CRF), the nation’s third largest public pension fund, which invests the assets of more than one million members, retirees, and beneficiaries of the retirement system in New York State.The CRF is an investor in the AG Super Fund, a hedge fund managed by Angelo, Gordon & Co.In addition to owning almost 20 percent of FairPoint stock, Angelo, Gordon & Co. has a designee on FairPoint’s Board of Directors.According to Mr. DiNapoli’s letter, “In our experience as a long-term institutional investor, where a company has a constructive relationship with its workers and provides sustainable retirement benefits, the company becomes a stronger, more profitable, and more enduring enterprise.”He went on to say that, “We are, therefore, concerned by publicly reported allegations that FairPoint has not acted in good faith and has violated federal law; specifically, assertions that FairPoint improperly declared an impasse in collective bargaining and unlawfully imposed” the terms of its final contract proposals.Union leaders welcomed Mr. DiNapoli’s intervention. “Angelo, Gordon is the largest FairPoint stockholder and has tremendous influence over management’s decisions. We hope that Mr. Angelo takes seriously this intervention by Mr. DiNapoli, who represents one of the largest pension funds in the US,” said Peter McLaughlin, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2327 and chair of the unions’ bargaining committee.The Chairman of FairPoint’s Board of Directors, Edward Horowitz, recently informed an advisor to union leaders that members of the Board have been briefed on the company’s bargaining position and that the Board fully endorses that position.“It is disappointing to hear that members of FairPoint’s Board of Directors support the company’s attacks on working families across northern New England,” said Don Trementozzi, President of CWA Local 1400. “We believe that our members are the reason this company emerged from bankruptcy and has begun to recover after its truly ill-advised purchase of Verizon. We will continue to educate investors like the CRF about this company’s decision to put short-term profits above the long-term interests of its workers, customers, and their communities.”
September 8, 2014CWA Local 1400 VT Members with Senator Bernie Sanders. The Senator is well informed of our contract fight with FairPoint!
August 31, 2014
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
We write to you today at a crucial moment in the life of our Unions. The Company has imposed terms and conditions on us that would outrage any union member anywhere.
Have no doubt. We are outraged. We are disgusted. And, we are fighting back.
We urge every member to rest assured: your Bargaining Committee is united. We are working every single day to reach a fair agreement. We have an outstanding team of financial advisors, strategic campaign operatives, and attorneys on our side. And, most important of all, we have a team of well-trained and informed Member Mobilizers in every worksite across our three states. We’ve built a mobilization structure that works, and you should rely on your Mobilizers for good information. Anything you hear or read from a source other than someone on the Mobilization Team or the Bargaining Committee is not reliable.
Every move this company has made since before bargaining commenced has been with one goal, to gut our unions. With their union-busting attorney at the head of the pack, they made their outrageous proposals on April 25th and then refused to compromise on any substantial element during dozens of so-called bargaining sessions. All the while they brought in replacement workers in a blatant attempt to intimidate our members. Now they’ve implemented terms and conditions that insult us to our very core.
The IBEW and CWA across Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont will not be bullied by the Company into taking any precipitous action that does not move us toward our common goal, to win a fair agreement for our members. Now more than ever, we must all focus our energy and our anger on the people who have brought us here: Paul Sunu and the Wall Street hedge fund owners who control his every move.
Our unions, together with unions and allies across the United States, will focus on holding Sunu and his Wall Street overlords responsible for their attacks on working people in Northern New England.
You and your co-workers have mobilized like never before and your visible actions have sent a strong message of unity to your Bargaining Team, the Company, and the public. We must all continue to fight together.
Stay focused. Stay united. Stay on high alert, and trust in your Bargaining Team.We are union. We are one. In unity there is strength,
Peter McLaughlin, Chair, IBEW System Council T9, and Business Manager, IBEW Local 2327, Don Trementozzi, President, CWA Local 1400
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
We write to you today at a crucial moment in the life of our Unions. The Company has imposed terms and conditions on us that would outrage any union member anywhere.
Have no doubt. We are outraged. We are disgusted. And, we are fighting back.
We urge every member to rest assured: your Bargaining Committee is united. We are working every single day to reach a fair agreement. We have an outstanding team of financial advisors, strategic campaign operatives, and attorneys on our side. And, most important of all, we have a team of well-trained and informed Member Mobilizers in every worksite across our three states. We’ve built a mobilization structure that works, and you should rely on your Mobilizers for good information. Anything you hear or read from a source other than someone on the Mobilization Team or the Bargaining Committee is not reliable.
Every move this company has made since before bargaining commenced has been with one goal, to gut our unions. With their union-busting attorney at the head of the pack, they made their outrageous proposals on April 25th and then refused to compromise on any substantial element during dozens of so-called bargaining sessions. All the while they brought in replacement workers in a blatant attempt to intimidate our members. Now they’ve implemented terms and conditions that insult us to our very core.
The IBEW and CWA across Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont will not be bullied by the Company into taking any precipitous action that does not move us toward our common goal, to win a fair agreement for our members. Now more than ever, we must all focus our energy and our anger on the people who have brought us here: Paul Sunu and the Wall Street hedge fund owners who control his every move.
Our unions, together with unions and allies across the United States, will focus on holding Sunu and his Wall Street overlords responsible for their attacks on working people in Northern New England.
You and your co-workers have mobilized like never before and your visible actions have sent a strong message of unity to your Bargaining Team, the Company, and the public. We must all continue to fight together.
Stay focused. Stay united. Stay on high alert, and trust in your Bargaining Team.We are union. We are one. In unity there is strength,
Peter McLaughlin, Chair, IBEW System Council T9, and Business Manager, IBEW Local 2327, Don Trementozzi, President, CWA Local 1400
August 28, 2014For immediate release, August 28, 2014
FairPoint Walks Away From Bargaining Process, Declares ImpasseUnions Accuse Company of Federal Labor Law Violations
Augusta, ME--Unions representing nearly 2,000 employees of FairPoint Communications in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont met with the company on August 27 in Nashua, NH. The unions made a comprehensive proposal despite the company's rejection of several earlier proposals.The company then waited several hours before notifying the unions by email that the parties are at impasse and that the company would impose its last contract proposals at 12:01 a.m. on August 28."We strongly disagree with the company. We have not reached impasse. The company should stay at the table and continue to work with us to reach an acceptable agreement," said Peter McLaughlin, Business Manager of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 2327 in Augusta and chair of the unions' bargaining committee.The unions have filed charges with the National Labor Relations Board accusing the company of violating federal law by not bargaining in good faith.We are deeply disappointed that FairPoint has walked away from the bargaining process," said Don Trementozzi, President of Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1400. "We have worked tirelessly for months to negotiate an agreement that is fair to our members, our customers, and the company. We believe the company never intended to reach an agreement with us, but has been pushing towards this outcome all along."According to union leaders, the company has rejected every significant proposal the union has put forward since bargaining began in April and has refused to offer any counter proposals since before the contract expired on August 2."The company has refused to bargain with us, and their negotiators have even attempted to intimidate and bully us throughout the process," said Glenn Brackett, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2320 in Manchester, NH. "But our members will not be intimidated by this company. They are determined to stand up for good jobs and our customers."Union leaders say FairPoint management wants to outsource hundreds of good jobs in Northern New England to low wage, out-of-state contractors. The company’s proposals would be devastating for communities that depend on well-trained and experienced workers to build and maintain their landlines, cell towers, DSL, and even 911 systems."FairPoint's employees are some of the best trained, most experienced telecommunications workers in this country," said Mike Spillane, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2326 in Burlington, VT. "But FairPoint executives are determined to outsource their work to low road contractors no matter the impact on customers and our communities. We will continue to fight their attempts to outsource our future."The union bargaining team will meet with its attorneys and other key advisors on Thursday morning to assess the situation and decide on next steps. In the meantime, the union has notified all members to continue working until further notice.IBEW System Council T9 represents nearly 1,700 FairPoint employees in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. CWA Local 1400 represents nearly 300 employees in the three states.
FairPoint Walks Away From Bargaining Process, Declares ImpasseUnions Accuse Company of Federal Labor Law Violations
Augusta, ME--Unions representing nearly 2,000 employees of FairPoint Communications in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont met with the company on August 27 in Nashua, NH. The unions made a comprehensive proposal despite the company's rejection of several earlier proposals.The company then waited several hours before notifying the unions by email that the parties are at impasse and that the company would impose its last contract proposals at 12:01 a.m. on August 28."We strongly disagree with the company. We have not reached impasse. The company should stay at the table and continue to work with us to reach an acceptable agreement," said Peter McLaughlin, Business Manager of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 2327 in Augusta and chair of the unions' bargaining committee.The unions have filed charges with the National Labor Relations Board accusing the company of violating federal law by not bargaining in good faith.We are deeply disappointed that FairPoint has walked away from the bargaining process," said Don Trementozzi, President of Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1400. "We have worked tirelessly for months to negotiate an agreement that is fair to our members, our customers, and the company. We believe the company never intended to reach an agreement with us, but has been pushing towards this outcome all along."According to union leaders, the company has rejected every significant proposal the union has put forward since bargaining began in April and has refused to offer any counter proposals since before the contract expired on August 2."The company has refused to bargain with us, and their negotiators have even attempted to intimidate and bully us throughout the process," said Glenn Brackett, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2320 in Manchester, NH. "But our members will not be intimidated by this company. They are determined to stand up for good jobs and our customers."Union leaders say FairPoint management wants to outsource hundreds of good jobs in Northern New England to low wage, out-of-state contractors. The company’s proposals would be devastating for communities that depend on well-trained and experienced workers to build and maintain their landlines, cell towers, DSL, and even 911 systems."FairPoint's employees are some of the best trained, most experienced telecommunications workers in this country," said Mike Spillane, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2326 in Burlington, VT. "But FairPoint executives are determined to outsource their work to low road contractors no matter the impact on customers and our communities. We will continue to fight their attempts to outsource our future."The union bargaining team will meet with its attorneys and other key advisors on Thursday morning to assess the situation and decide on next steps. In the meantime, the union has notified all members to continue working until further notice.IBEW System Council T9 represents nearly 1,700 FairPoint employees in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. CWA Local 1400 represents nearly 300 employees in the three states.
August 2, 2014Members support the Bargaining Team in Nashua, NH
Members join together at vigils throughout Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire on the night of the contract expiration
One year away from contract expiration with VerizonIBEW & CWA Members and Supporters in Boston 7/31/2014
Steve Early’s book reports on our 2011-2012 Verizon strike and contract campaign, plus the future of labor movement…
CWA Local 1400 and its members figure prominently in Steve Early’s latest book on the American labor movement. Steve worked for many years as a District 1 staff representative and is a longtime friend of our local. Save Our Unions: Dispatches From a Movement in Distress describes recent telecom organizing and bargaining battles, plus our local's role in campaigning for health care reform and raising key issues at CWA's 2011 national convention. There's even a section on Vermont and the great work there by the Local 1400-backed Vermont Workers' Center and Vermont Progressive Party. Save Our Unions describes the challenges facing all workers, whether they’re trying to democratize their union, win a strike, defend past contract gains, or bargain with management for the first time. Drawing on forty years of first-hand experience, Steve describes cross-border union campaigning (like the T-Mobile struggle), more effective strategies for organizing and health care reform, and political initiatives that might lessen labor’s dependence on unreliable allies in Democratic Party. The book contains vivid portraits of rank-and-file heroes and heroines, both well known and unsung, and takes readers to union conventions and funerals, strikes and picket lines, celebrations of labor’s past, and struggles to ensure that unions still have a future in the 21st century. Steve’s insight, analysis, and advocacy help illuminate the paths to revitalization and reform of workers’ organizations, at home and abroad.Copies of Steve's book can be ordered from Monthly Review Press at:http://monthlyreview.org/press/books/pb4277/“This book shows what it takes to defend democracy, workers’ rights, and social justice unionism when all are under attack by big business.”—Dolores HuertaCo-founder, United Farm WorkersRecipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom“Very important work!”—Noam Chomsky“With labor now searching for new directions, this book should be at the top of activists’ reading lists. In his latest collection of essays, Steve Early hits on the key themes necessary for reviving the labor movement: union democracy, workplace activism, and a willingness to confront corporate power.”—Joe BurnsAFA/CWA negotiatorAuthor, Reviving The Strike“Never one to mince words or bow to authority, Steve Early’s latest work is hard-hitting and thought-provoking. Early is an activist/writer who sees unions, including his own, facing massive challenges but still searching for successful strategies. In Save Our Unions, Early chronicles recent workplace struggles with great sympathy and insight, showing the road taken by workers trying to reignite labor as a movement.”—Elaine BernardExecutive Director, Labor and Worklife Program, Harvard Law School
CWA Local 1400 and its members figure prominently in Steve Early’s latest book on the American labor movement. Steve worked for many years as a District 1 staff representative and is a longtime friend of our local. Save Our Unions: Dispatches From a Movement in Distress describes recent telecom organizing and bargaining battles, plus our local's role in campaigning for health care reform and raising key issues at CWA's 2011 national convention. There's even a section on Vermont and the great work there by the Local 1400-backed Vermont Workers' Center and Vermont Progressive Party. Save Our Unions describes the challenges facing all workers, whether they’re trying to democratize their union, win a strike, defend past contract gains, or bargain with management for the first time. Drawing on forty years of first-hand experience, Steve describes cross-border union campaigning (like the T-Mobile struggle), more effective strategies for organizing and health care reform, and political initiatives that might lessen labor’s dependence on unreliable allies in Democratic Party. The book contains vivid portraits of rank-and-file heroes and heroines, both well known and unsung, and takes readers to union conventions and funerals, strikes and picket lines, celebrations of labor’s past, and struggles to ensure that unions still have a future in the 21st century. Steve’s insight, analysis, and advocacy help illuminate the paths to revitalization and reform of workers’ organizations, at home and abroad.Copies of Steve's book can be ordered from Monthly Review Press at:http://monthlyreview.org/press/books/pb4277/“This book shows what it takes to defend democracy, workers’ rights, and social justice unionism when all are under attack by big business.”—Dolores HuertaCo-founder, United Farm WorkersRecipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom“Very important work!”—Noam Chomsky“With labor now searching for new directions, this book should be at the top of activists’ reading lists. In his latest collection of essays, Steve Early hits on the key themes necessary for reviving the labor movement: union democracy, workplace activism, and a willingness to confront corporate power.”—Joe BurnsAFA/CWA negotiatorAuthor, Reviving The Strike“Never one to mince words or bow to authority, Steve Early’s latest work is hard-hitting and thought-provoking. Early is an activist/writer who sees unions, including his own, facing massive challenges but still searching for successful strategies. In Save Our Unions, Early chronicles recent workplace struggles with great sympathy and insight, showing the road taken by workers trying to reignite labor as a movement.”—Elaine BernardExecutive Director, Labor and Worklife Program, Harvard Law School
VOTE NO……..It's not only about the money!
We should have fought more to remove/limit Article 26:
We should have fought more to remove/limit Article 26:
- The National Labor Relations Act gives Unions the right to request bargaining when an employer makes a new policy that has discipline attached to it.
- Because of Article 26, AT&T Mobility refuses to bargain and continues to implement random new performance policies with discipline.
- Because of Article 26, AT&T Mobility refuses to bargain and continues to implement random attendance policies with discipline.
- Under the NLRA, these policies are subject to bargaining.
October 19, 2012:Press Release Verizon Contract Ratified
Washington, D.C. -- Members of the Communications Workers of America at Verizon Communications ratified a four-year agreement covering about 35,000 CWA represented workers from Virginia to New England. Members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers also voted to ratify a four-year agreement. IBEW represents about 10,000 Verizon workers.Contract highlights include an 8.2 percent compounded wage increase over the next three years, and additional cash payments. Also on ratification, CWA members who were fired by Verizon during the August 2011 strike will return to work.Representing members in New York, New Jersey and New England, CWA District 1 Vice President Chris Shelton said: “This contract ensures that every one of our members will see an improvement in their standard of living. It was a tough fight, and we turned back efforts by the company to gut our contracts. Now, we’ll keep up the fight to expand good jobs for Verizon workers.”CWA District 2-13 Vice President Ed Mooney, who represents Verizon workers in the mid-Atlantic states, said: “The unity and determination of CWA and the IBEW over 16 months of bargaining, and the support of our allies, made this contract possible. Our goal now is to make certain that CWA members continue to be a key part of this company’s future.”The contract had expired in August 2011. A two-week strike, an active member mobilization and support campaign by progressive allies, and final intensive negotiations under the auspices of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service brought about this settlement. The new contract expires August 2015.
Washington, D.C. -- Members of the Communications Workers of America at Verizon Communications ratified a four-year agreement covering about 35,000 CWA represented workers from Virginia to New England. Members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers also voted to ratify a four-year agreement. IBEW represents about 10,000 Verizon workers.Contract highlights include an 8.2 percent compounded wage increase over the next three years, and additional cash payments. Also on ratification, CWA members who were fired by Verizon during the August 2011 strike will return to work.Representing members in New York, New Jersey and New England, CWA District 1 Vice President Chris Shelton said: “This contract ensures that every one of our members will see an improvement in their standard of living. It was a tough fight, and we turned back efforts by the company to gut our contracts. Now, we’ll keep up the fight to expand good jobs for Verizon workers.”CWA District 2-13 Vice President Ed Mooney, who represents Verizon workers in the mid-Atlantic states, said: “The unity and determination of CWA and the IBEW over 16 months of bargaining, and the support of our allies, made this contract possible. Our goal now is to make certain that CWA members continue to be a key part of this company’s future.”The contract had expired in August 2011. A two-week strike, an active member mobilization and support campaign by progressive allies, and final intensive negotiations under the auspices of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service brought about this settlement. The new contract expires August 2015.
October 1, 2012 - CWA Local 1400 supports our next Mass US Senator Elizabeth Warren
June 2012 - Don Trementozzi receives an award from NH Membership
Communications Workers of America Local 1400 Endorses Maggie Hassan for NH Governorby Wyatt ForePosted on June 12, 2012
Maggie is honored to earn the endorsement of the Communications Workers of America Local 1400! Here’s the official announcement:MANCHESTER, NH – The executive board of the Communications Workers of America Local 1400 has voted unanimously to endorse Maggie Hassan for Governor.The Communications Workers of America (CWA) is the largest telecommunications union in the world, and CWA Local 1400 represents telecommunications workers throughout New Hampshire and New England.“Our board voted unanimously to support Maggie Hassan, because Maggie is committed to the needs of working people. Her position against Right to Work clearly protects the right of workers to bargain collectively and is one that we know that she strongly supports.” said CWA Local 1400 president Don Trementozzi.“We believe in the importance of electing a Governor we can count on to stand up for the middle class. As our next Governor, Maggie will work to build an innovative economy that will help move New Hampshire forward. We whole-heartedly endorse her candidacy and are pleased to be a part of her campaign for Governor.” said New Hampshire’s CWA Local 1400 district vice president Felicia Augevich.“I am honored to earn the support of CWA Local 1400,” said Hassan. “Our campaign continues to grow every single day – and I’m thrilled to add CWA to our team. We need to mount the strongest campaign possible to win in the fall so we can keep New Hampshire moving forward. As Governor, my focus will be on building an innovative economy that gives middle class families the opportunity to succeed.Hassan has earned the support of five other unions including the Carpenters Local 118, Iron Workers Local 7, UFCW Locals 1445 and 791, the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades Council #35 and the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers Local #6. She also has the support of EMILY’s List and the Women’s Campaign Fund.As Senate Majority Leader, Hassan often partnered with Governor John Lynch to focus on the economy and New Hampshire families. Hassan was the prime Senate sponsor of “New Hampshire Working” which allows the state to partner with workers and businesses to provide an alternative to layoffs.In 2008, she helped lead the way to pass universal kindergarten so that every child has the same opportunity to succeed. In order to lower the state’s dropout rate, she worked to raise the legal dropout age to 18.She has also tackled consumer protections in health care by enabling children to remain on their parent’s health insurance until the age of 26, ensured divorced spouses have access to family insurance plans, and passed Connor’s Law that requires that insurances companies cover treatment for autism. She also worked to pass the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) to reduce emissions and curb climate change.Hassan’s campaign for governor is focused on moving New Hampshire forward by building an innovative economy that gives middle class families the opportunity to succeed.
Maggie is honored to earn the endorsement of the Communications Workers of America Local 1400! Here’s the official announcement:MANCHESTER, NH – The executive board of the Communications Workers of America Local 1400 has voted unanimously to endorse Maggie Hassan for Governor.The Communications Workers of America (CWA) is the largest telecommunications union in the world, and CWA Local 1400 represents telecommunications workers throughout New Hampshire and New England.“Our board voted unanimously to support Maggie Hassan, because Maggie is committed to the needs of working people. Her position against Right to Work clearly protects the right of workers to bargain collectively and is one that we know that she strongly supports.” said CWA Local 1400 president Don Trementozzi.“We believe in the importance of electing a Governor we can count on to stand up for the middle class. As our next Governor, Maggie will work to build an innovative economy that will help move New Hampshire forward. We whole-heartedly endorse her candidacy and are pleased to be a part of her campaign for Governor.” said New Hampshire’s CWA Local 1400 district vice president Felicia Augevich.“I am honored to earn the support of CWA Local 1400,” said Hassan. “Our campaign continues to grow every single day – and I’m thrilled to add CWA to our team. We need to mount the strongest campaign possible to win in the fall so we can keep New Hampshire moving forward. As Governor, my focus will be on building an innovative economy that gives middle class families the opportunity to succeed.Hassan has earned the support of five other unions including the Carpenters Local 118, Iron Workers Local 7, UFCW Locals 1445 and 791, the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades Council #35 and the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers Local #6. She also has the support of EMILY’s List and the Women’s Campaign Fund.As Senate Majority Leader, Hassan often partnered with Governor John Lynch to focus on the economy and New Hampshire families. Hassan was the prime Senate sponsor of “New Hampshire Working” which allows the state to partner with workers and businesses to provide an alternative to layoffs.In 2008, she helped lead the way to pass universal kindergarten so that every child has the same opportunity to succeed. In order to lower the state’s dropout rate, she worked to raise the legal dropout age to 18.She has also tackled consumer protections in health care by enabling children to remain on their parent’s health insurance until the age of 26, ensured divorced spouses have access to family insurance plans, and passed Connor’s Law that requires that insurances companies cover treatment for autism. She also worked to pass the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) to reduce emissions and curb climate change.Hassan’s campaign for governor is focused on moving New Hampshire forward by building an innovative economy that gives middle class families the opportunity to succeed.
May 2012 - Labor Notes Telecom Meeting, Chicago, IL
April 14, 2012 - Annual River Rat Promenade, Athol, MA
March 22, 2012NATIONAL DAY OF ACTION (Boston & New Hampshire)
CWA workers to protest against Verizon WirelessMarch 22, 2012 2:00 AMPORTSMOUTH - Communications Workers of America members will stand in support of Verizon workers from 5 to 7 p.m. today at Verizon Wireless' Portsmouth store at 1840 Woodbury Ave. and in Manchester as part of a "national day of action" against the telecommunications company.CWA workers and supporters say they will ask consumers not to patronize Verizon Wireless until it stops downgrading the middle-class jobs of its work force and approves a fair contract with CWA."Good middle-class jobs fuel the New Hampshire advantage. We cannot afford for multinational companies such as Verizon Wireless to reset the standards for workers even in trying economic times," said Felicia Augevich, district vice president of CWA Local 1400.After talks broke down last summer, about 45,000 Verizon workers who are members of the CWA and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers walked off the job and took part in a 13-day strike. They returned to work under terms of the old contract.
February 23, 20122011 Melissa Morin Scholarship Winner is Matt Lasko!Matt is a Senior at Assumption College in Worcester, MA. His father, Jeff Lasko works for Fairpoint in the Burlington CSSC.
March/Rally Against Corporate Greed - Boston 9/30/11
9/16/11 - Oakland, Maine: T-Mobile Workers Fight Downsizing
Struggling FairPoint to Lay off 400 Workers By CLARKE CANFIELD Associated PressPORTLAND, Maine September 8, 2011 (AP)
Telecommunications Company FairPoint Communications is cutting 400 jobs, or about 10 percent of its work force, as it continues to struggle financially after emerging from bankruptcy.Company officials notified employees Thursday that about 130 people will lose their jobs in Maine, 190 in New Hampshire and 55 in Vermont in the coming months. Another 25 jobs are being cut in the other 15 states where FairPoint operates."We're matching our work force to our workload," said FairPoint Maine President Mike Reed. "We're under pretty heavy competition and everyone knows we've lost some access lines."FairPoint is based in Charlotte, N.C., and provides telephone and high-speed Internet services in 18 states, with nearly 1.4 million access lines.The company filed for bankruptcy in the fall of 2009, 18 months after buying Verizon's northern New England landline telephone and Internet operations for $2.3 billion. It has continued to struggle since emerging from bankruptcy in January.In its last earnings report, FairPoint reported losing $27.1 million for the April-June period while seeing the number of its access lines decline 6.4 percent from a year ago. Its stock price has fallen from over $24 a share after emerging from bankruptcy to about $6, where it was trading Thursday afternoon.The jobs now being cut include about 100 management positions and 300 union-represented jobs. All eligible employees will receive severance packages expected to total between $7 and $13 million.The smaller work force will result in annual savings of about $34 million, FairPoint said.The job cuts show the company still hasn't worked out its problems, said Peter McLaughlin, chairman of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers council overseeing locals in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont."We just barely have the people now to get done what we have to do and now they're going to cut another 400 heads," McLaughlin said. "Our residential customers, our business customers and our wholesale customers are going to suffer. And that's going to drive the company into the ground even further."All the union layoffs involve IBEW members. FairPoint workers in the Communications Workers of America union, who work at FairPoint's call centers, have a separate contract and are not affected by the job cuts, Reed said.While FairPoint continues to lose money, Reed said the company is meeting its goals for customer service and expanding broadband Internet throughout northern New England.FairPoint has about 4,000 employees, nearly 3,400 of which are in northern New England.
Telecommunications Company FairPoint Communications is cutting 400 jobs, or about 10 percent of its work force, as it continues to struggle financially after emerging from bankruptcy.Company officials notified employees Thursday that about 130 people will lose their jobs in Maine, 190 in New Hampshire and 55 in Vermont in the coming months. Another 25 jobs are being cut in the other 15 states where FairPoint operates."We're matching our work force to our workload," said FairPoint Maine President Mike Reed. "We're under pretty heavy competition and everyone knows we've lost some access lines."FairPoint is based in Charlotte, N.C., and provides telephone and high-speed Internet services in 18 states, with nearly 1.4 million access lines.The company filed for bankruptcy in the fall of 2009, 18 months after buying Verizon's northern New England landline telephone and Internet operations for $2.3 billion. It has continued to struggle since emerging from bankruptcy in January.In its last earnings report, FairPoint reported losing $27.1 million for the April-June period while seeing the number of its access lines decline 6.4 percent from a year ago. Its stock price has fallen from over $24 a share after emerging from bankruptcy to about $6, where it was trading Thursday afternoon.The jobs now being cut include about 100 management positions and 300 union-represented jobs. All eligible employees will receive severance packages expected to total between $7 and $13 million.The smaller work force will result in annual savings of about $34 million, FairPoint said.The job cuts show the company still hasn't worked out its problems, said Peter McLaughlin, chairman of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers council overseeing locals in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont."We just barely have the people now to get done what we have to do and now they're going to cut another 400 heads," McLaughlin said. "Our residential customers, our business customers and our wholesale customers are going to suffer. And that's going to drive the company into the ground even further."All the union layoffs involve IBEW members. FairPoint workers in the Communications Workers of America union, who work at FairPoint's call centers, have a separate contract and are not affected by the job cuts, Reed said.While FairPoint continues to lose money, Reed said the company is meeting its goals for customer service and expanding broadband Internet throughout northern New England.FairPoint has about 4,000 employees, nearly 3,400 of which are in northern New England.
July 20, 2011Local 1298, Communications Workers of AmericaFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: President, William Henderson 860-908-8680
Against All Odds T-Mobile CT Technicians Vote to “GO UNION”
Hamden, Wednesday, July 20, 2011 – Fifteen T-Mobile technicians voted in an election supervised by the National Labor Relations Board yesterday to join CWA Local 1298. They are the first T-Mobile workers in the nation to win a voice in their workplace.The workers endured a withering anti-union campaign by T-Mobile management, including forced “captive audience” anti-union indoctrination sessions, stepped-up monitoring and other intimidation tactics, and an unusual 4 day NLRB hearing where high-priced T-Mobile attorneys tried to challenge the workers’ petition.William Henderson, President of the Communications Workers of America, Local 1298 said, “This is a great victory for telecommunications workers in general, and especially T-Mobile workers. These workers had the guts and the wisdom to step up to protect their own interests. With the AT&T / T-Mobile merger coming, all T-Mobile workers should consider whether they want to go it alone – or have a voice in what happens. That’s why these Connecticut workers voted ‘Union.’ It’s a smart move.”Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1298 represents almost 5,000 workers working at at&t, at&t Mobility and other workplaces in Connecticut and throughout New England. One of the biggest union locals in the region, CWA Local 1298 is based in Hamden, CT.
Against All Odds T-Mobile CT Technicians Vote to “GO UNION”
Hamden, Wednesday, July 20, 2011 – Fifteen T-Mobile technicians voted in an election supervised by the National Labor Relations Board yesterday to join CWA Local 1298. They are the first T-Mobile workers in the nation to win a voice in their workplace.The workers endured a withering anti-union campaign by T-Mobile management, including forced “captive audience” anti-union indoctrination sessions, stepped-up monitoring and other intimidation tactics, and an unusual 4 day NLRB hearing where high-priced T-Mobile attorneys tried to challenge the workers’ petition.William Henderson, President of the Communications Workers of America, Local 1298 said, “This is a great victory for telecommunications workers in general, and especially T-Mobile workers. These workers had the guts and the wisdom to step up to protect their own interests. With the AT&T / T-Mobile merger coming, all T-Mobile workers should consider whether they want to go it alone – or have a voice in what happens. That’s why these Connecticut workers voted ‘Union.’ It’s a smart move.”Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1298 represents almost 5,000 workers working at at&t, at&t Mobility and other workplaces in Connecticut and throughout New England. One of the biggest union locals in the region, CWA Local 1298 is based in Hamden, CT.
June 2, 2011Maine - Rally against the Right-To-Work Bill
June 1, 2011New Hampshire - Fighting the Right-To-Work Bill
May 25, 2011H202 bill signing at the VT State House
May 1, 2011Single Payer Health Care Rally, Montpelier, Vermont, Single-payer activists take credit for passage of H.202
April 13, 2011Taunton CSSC/SRC - Welcoming Verizon COO, Lowell McAdam!
April 4, 2011National Day of Action Photos - CWA Local 1400
March 26, 2011Second Verizon 2011 Contract Campaign and Organizing Strategy Session
March 23, 2011CWA Crows Over AT&T DealIn cellular merger, organized labor comes out on top.MIKE ELK | March 23, 2011 | American Prospect, web only
When news of AT&T's acquisition of T-Mobile USA broke on Sunday, the immediate reaction among progressives was one of dismay."Don't believe the hype: There is nothing about having less competition that will benefit wireless consumers," said S. Derek Turner, research director of the open communications advocacy group Free Press, in a statement. Other progressive consumer groups, including the Consumer Federation of America and the Center for Digital Democracy, were also quick to issue statements denouncing the deal, which, if approved, would create the country's largest cellular carrier.However, one progressive group cheered the merger: the Communication Workers of America, a labor union whose more than 500,000 members include 150,000 AT&T employees."[Union members] in the U.S. will welcome this news since of all the possible partners, AT&T will mean better employment security and a management record of full neutrality toward union membership and a bargaining voice," CWA President Larry Cohen said in a statement shortly after the merger was announced. "For T-Mobile USA workers who want a voice in their workplace, this acquisition can provide a fresh start with T-Mobile management."For over a decade, CWA has been trying to organize T-Mobile's 26,000 workers. (The American Prospect covered CWA's organizing campaign back in our November issue.) However, CWA alleges that T-Mobile has engaged in heavy-handed anti-union intimidation tactics that have prevented workers from joining a union."When we tried to organize a call center in Maine, they just stopped us dead in our tracks with just a brutal intimidation campaign," said New England Area CWA Local 1440 President Don Trementozzi. "They called the police on our organizers when they visited the workplace. They threatened to fire people who supported the union. It was just impossible to get an organizing committee going there."At AT&T, the Communication Workers of America have succeeded over the decades in winning concessions from management, including an easier path to organizing and a neutrality agreement that would prevent the company from interfering with union drives. If past is prologue, the new AT&T umbrella could be good news for T-Mobile workers."When Unicel sold to AT&T, we were able to successfully organize Unicel workers, who had been trying to organize for years, in just 90 days and get them into the contract right away," said Trementozzi. "It's unheard of in the labor movement to organize workers and get them a contract in 90 days, but with the neutrality agreement we were able to do it. It was almost pathetic how easy it was."The opportunity to organize T-Mobile using a similar neutrality agreement could be a great boon to CWA, which has lost nearly 50,000 members since the recession began in 2007. It could also benefit unions nationwide."If heavily unionized AT&T didn't buy T-Mobile, it would be tough for AT&T to compete against non-union Verizon, who had gained a greater market share," said Trementozzi. "If T-Mobile had sold to non-union Sprint, it would have made the situation even worse for AT&T. Now, at least a union company like AT&T can compete against Verizon and not drive unions totally out of the telecom industry."Some progressive consumer advocates disagree, arguing that unions are putting their own self-interest above the interests of consumers and the country's economic wellbeing."It may create more dues-paying members for CWA, but does it mean it's good for overall job market and the country?" asked Free Press political adviser Joel Kelsey. "Mergers almost always result in layoffs."This is not the first time CWA has sided with telecoms and upset progressives. Over the summer, progressive groups blasted CWA for endorsing the compromise position of the FCC on net neutrality.But unions counter all of these charges by arguing that consumer advocacy groups are not properly balancing consumers' rights with the need to build a movement for workers' rights. "We think it's important to put the workers' rights issue on their agenda and into their analysis of positions," said CWA Senior Director of Collective Bargaining and Technology George Kohl. "The future of the labor movement is at stake?and the strength of the progressive movement as a result."Mike Elk is a third-generation union organizer and labor journalist based in Washington, D.C. He writes frequently for the Huffington Post and In These Times and has appeared as a commentator on CNN, Fox News, and NPR. Follow him at www.Twitter.com/mikeelk.
When news of AT&T's acquisition of T-Mobile USA broke on Sunday, the immediate reaction among progressives was one of dismay."Don't believe the hype: There is nothing about having less competition that will benefit wireless consumers," said S. Derek Turner, research director of the open communications advocacy group Free Press, in a statement. Other progressive consumer groups, including the Consumer Federation of America and the Center for Digital Democracy, were also quick to issue statements denouncing the deal, which, if approved, would create the country's largest cellular carrier.However, one progressive group cheered the merger: the Communication Workers of America, a labor union whose more than 500,000 members include 150,000 AT&T employees."[Union members] in the U.S. will welcome this news since of all the possible partners, AT&T will mean better employment security and a management record of full neutrality toward union membership and a bargaining voice," CWA President Larry Cohen said in a statement shortly after the merger was announced. "For T-Mobile USA workers who want a voice in their workplace, this acquisition can provide a fresh start with T-Mobile management."For over a decade, CWA has been trying to organize T-Mobile's 26,000 workers. (The American Prospect covered CWA's organizing campaign back in our November issue.) However, CWA alleges that T-Mobile has engaged in heavy-handed anti-union intimidation tactics that have prevented workers from joining a union."When we tried to organize a call center in Maine, they just stopped us dead in our tracks with just a brutal intimidation campaign," said New England Area CWA Local 1440 President Don Trementozzi. "They called the police on our organizers when they visited the workplace. They threatened to fire people who supported the union. It was just impossible to get an organizing committee going there."At AT&T, the Communication Workers of America have succeeded over the decades in winning concessions from management, including an easier path to organizing and a neutrality agreement that would prevent the company from interfering with union drives. If past is prologue, the new AT&T umbrella could be good news for T-Mobile workers."When Unicel sold to AT&T, we were able to successfully organize Unicel workers, who had been trying to organize for years, in just 90 days and get them into the contract right away," said Trementozzi. "It's unheard of in the labor movement to organize workers and get them a contract in 90 days, but with the neutrality agreement we were able to do it. It was almost pathetic how easy it was."The opportunity to organize T-Mobile using a similar neutrality agreement could be a great boon to CWA, which has lost nearly 50,000 members since the recession began in 2007. It could also benefit unions nationwide."If heavily unionized AT&T didn't buy T-Mobile, it would be tough for AT&T to compete against non-union Verizon, who had gained a greater market share," said Trementozzi. "If T-Mobile had sold to non-union Sprint, it would have made the situation even worse for AT&T. Now, at least a union company like AT&T can compete against Verizon and not drive unions totally out of the telecom industry."Some progressive consumer advocates disagree, arguing that unions are putting their own self-interest above the interests of consumers and the country's economic wellbeing."It may create more dues-paying members for CWA, but does it mean it's good for overall job market and the country?" asked Free Press political adviser Joel Kelsey. "Mergers almost always result in layoffs."This is not the first time CWA has sided with telecoms and upset progressives. Over the summer, progressive groups blasted CWA for endorsing the compromise position of the FCC on net neutrality.But unions counter all of these charges by arguing that consumer advocacy groups are not properly balancing consumers' rights with the need to build a movement for workers' rights. "We think it's important to put the workers' rights issue on their agenda and into their analysis of positions," said CWA Senior Director of Collective Bargaining and Technology George Kohl. "The future of the labor movement is at stake?and the strength of the progressive movement as a result."Mike Elk is a third-generation union organizer and labor journalist based in Washington, D.C. He writes frequently for the Huffington Post and In These Times and has appeared as a commentator on CNN, Fox News, and NPR. Follow him at www.Twitter.com/mikeelk.
March 22, 2011 - CWA 1118 Picket of at&t
For release 2:30 p.m., Sunday, March 20, 2011 Contact: Candice Johnson, CWA Communications, cjohnson@cwa-union.org T Mobile USA and AT&T Merger Means Faster and More Widespread Broadband Following is a statement by CWA President Larry Cohen on the planned acquisition of T-Mobile USA by AT&T:
Washington, D.C. -- For more than a decade, the United States has continued to drop behind nearly every other developed economy on broadband speed and build out. The Federal Communications Commission sounded the alarm more than a year ago with its broadband report and President Obama in his State of the Union address called for increased efforts to bring the U.S. back to global parity as a key stimulus for economic development. Today’s announcement of the acquisition of T-Mobile USA by AT&T is a victory for broadband proponents in both the U.S. and Germany. For the U.S., it means that T-Mobile customers will get quick access to the AT&T network, soon to include LTE or data speeds of at least 10 megabits downstream. More important, as part of the deal, AT&T is committing to build out to nearly every part of the US within four years. Both AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM technology so there will be the immediate benefit of shared spectrum. Other reported deals involving T-Mobile would have joined incompatible networks; not only would that have forced a rebuild but would have required new phones for T- Mobile customers. In Germany, the cash deal will provide investment in parent Deutsche Telekom’s own fiber network, particularly important for DT’s principal owner, the German government. CWA and ver.di, the largest union in Germany, have partnered to support T-Mobile workers in the US , and the global union movement has been a strong supporter of this effort. CWA and ver.di formed a joint union – TU – that represents T-Mobile workers on both sides of the Atlantic. Hundreds of TU members in the U.S. will welcome this news since of all the possible partners, AT&T will mean better employment security and a management record of full neutrality towards union membership and a bargaining voice. For T-Mobile USA workers who want a voice in their workplace, this acquisition can provide a fresh start with T-Mobile management. Some 42,000 ATT mobility employees are union represented. As with any merger or acquisition involving large entities, oversight issues will be raised. We ask all those involved to balance the inquiry with adequate weight for broadband speed and build out, and employment and workers rights. Candice Johnson CWA Communications Director
Washington, D.C. -- For more than a decade, the United States has continued to drop behind nearly every other developed economy on broadband speed and build out. The Federal Communications Commission sounded the alarm more than a year ago with its broadband report and President Obama in his State of the Union address called for increased efforts to bring the U.S. back to global parity as a key stimulus for economic development. Today’s announcement of the acquisition of T-Mobile USA by AT&T is a victory for broadband proponents in both the U.S. and Germany. For the U.S., it means that T-Mobile customers will get quick access to the AT&T network, soon to include LTE or data speeds of at least 10 megabits downstream. More important, as part of the deal, AT&T is committing to build out to nearly every part of the US within four years. Both AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM technology so there will be the immediate benefit of shared spectrum. Other reported deals involving T-Mobile would have joined incompatible networks; not only would that have forced a rebuild but would have required new phones for T- Mobile customers. In Germany, the cash deal will provide investment in parent Deutsche Telekom’s own fiber network, particularly important for DT’s principal owner, the German government. CWA and ver.di, the largest union in Germany, have partnered to support T-Mobile workers in the US , and the global union movement has been a strong supporter of this effort. CWA and ver.di formed a joint union – TU – that represents T-Mobile workers on both sides of the Atlantic. Hundreds of TU members in the U.S. will welcome this news since of all the possible partners, AT&T will mean better employment security and a management record of full neutrality towards union membership and a bargaining voice. For T-Mobile USA workers who want a voice in their workplace, this acquisition can provide a fresh start with T-Mobile management. Some 42,000 ATT mobility employees are union represented. As with any merger or acquisition involving large entities, oversight issues will be raised. We ask all those involved to balance the inquiry with adequate weight for broadband speed and build out, and employment and workers rights. Candice Johnson CWA Communications Director
February 25, 2011Stand Up With Wisconsin Rally In Trenton, NJ
February 25, 2011Press ReleaseFor more info contact Paul Feeney 617-930-8729 or Rand Wilson 617-803-0799
Massachusetts to Wisconsin...Verizon IBEW members travel to Wisconsin to help build solidarity
In another important solidarity development, seven Boston-area Verizon employees who are members of IBEW Local 2222 left on Friday afternoon for an eighteen hour drive to Madison, Wisconsin to join the massive labor protests scheduled for this weekend.Writing in a blog about the group's trip, Verizon employee and IBEW Local 2222 organizer Paul Feeney wrote, "We're making good time. We left Boston this afternoon and have heard from union members throughout the area as they send messages of support to the workers of Wisconsin. We plan to drive straight to Madison throughout the night."I have asked each of my union brothers on the trip to reflect on how important it is to stand up at this critical time and act. Though we are but one small trip across many states that will end in a matter of days, we hope it serves as a call to action to all workers and their families. The call is urgent and the time is now!"Steve "Smitty" Smith, another IBEW organizer and a retired 36-year lineman who is also on the trip wrote, "How important is Madison to me? My mom and my dad (a retired postal worker) live very modestly on his pension. Yet they offered me $100 when I told them we were going to support the workers in Madison. My mom and dad can't afford $100, but they won't stand by and see their children and grandchildren's futures disappear without getting involved." With his years of telecom experience and history of union activism, Smitty is considered the dean of the Boston delegation.Other IBEW Local 2222 members on the trip to Madison include Bill Crowley, John Colleran, Jeff Oreander, Pat Atwell, and Matt Lyons."I'm so proud of all the telecom workers who are standing in Solidarity with our union brothers and sisters in Wisconsin," said Myles Calvey, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2222 and a key leader of Verizon telecom workers in New England. "Our unions must become part of a broad social movement to stop corporate greed in its tracks where ever it rears its ugly head! If today that fight is in Wisconsin, then we will be there!"Calvey will be one of the lead negotiators for the union contracts with Verizon covering telecom workers from Massachusetts to Virginia that expires on August 6, 2011."Our local labor movement stood proud on Tuesday, said Greater Boston Labor Council, AFL-CIO Executive Secretary-Treasurer Rich Rogers. "To see our private sector unions rallying with our public employees demonstrated again that union solidarity is more than just a slogan in Boston."Watch a video clip of the last Tuesday's Boston rally visit: http://blog.aflcio.org/2011/02/23/boston-rally/
Rand WilsonCenter for Strategic Research, AFL-CIO
Massachusetts to Wisconsin...Verizon IBEW members travel to Wisconsin to help build solidarity
In another important solidarity development, seven Boston-area Verizon employees who are members of IBEW Local 2222 left on Friday afternoon for an eighteen hour drive to Madison, Wisconsin to join the massive labor protests scheduled for this weekend.Writing in a blog about the group's trip, Verizon employee and IBEW Local 2222 organizer Paul Feeney wrote, "We're making good time. We left Boston this afternoon and have heard from union members throughout the area as they send messages of support to the workers of Wisconsin. We plan to drive straight to Madison throughout the night."I have asked each of my union brothers on the trip to reflect on how important it is to stand up at this critical time and act. Though we are but one small trip across many states that will end in a matter of days, we hope it serves as a call to action to all workers and their families. The call is urgent and the time is now!"Steve "Smitty" Smith, another IBEW organizer and a retired 36-year lineman who is also on the trip wrote, "How important is Madison to me? My mom and my dad (a retired postal worker) live very modestly on his pension. Yet they offered me $100 when I told them we were going to support the workers in Madison. My mom and dad can't afford $100, but they won't stand by and see their children and grandchildren's futures disappear without getting involved." With his years of telecom experience and history of union activism, Smitty is considered the dean of the Boston delegation.Other IBEW Local 2222 members on the trip to Madison include Bill Crowley, John Colleran, Jeff Oreander, Pat Atwell, and Matt Lyons."I'm so proud of all the telecom workers who are standing in Solidarity with our union brothers and sisters in Wisconsin," said Myles Calvey, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2222 and a key leader of Verizon telecom workers in New England. "Our unions must become part of a broad social movement to stop corporate greed in its tracks where ever it rears its ugly head! If today that fight is in Wisconsin, then we will be there!"Calvey will be one of the lead negotiators for the union contracts with Verizon covering telecom workers from Massachusetts to Virginia that expires on August 6, 2011."Our local labor movement stood proud on Tuesday, said Greater Boston Labor Council, AFL-CIO Executive Secretary-Treasurer Rich Rogers. "To see our private sector unions rallying with our public employees demonstrated again that union solidarity is more than just a slogan in Boston."Watch a video clip of the last Tuesday's Boston rally visit: http://blog.aflcio.org/2011/02/23/boston-rally/
Rand WilsonCenter for Strategic Research, AFL-CIO
February 21, 2011Following is Message from Chris Shelton Hello Everyone,Labor Unions and the Middle Class are being attacked. In Wisconsin, the right wing is trying to strip away the Collective Bargaining Rights of the public workers. Tens of thousands of people have been protesting all weekend in Wisconsin. This is not a Budget fight, this is about a Governor who wants to destroy Unions. Ohio, Indiana, and New Jersey to name a few states are also under attack. There will be rallies in State Capitals all over the country this week. We must all get off the sidelines and join in this fight.CWA and the AFL-CIO will be having a Rally in Trenton on the steps of the Statehouse on Friday at 12 Noon. The rally will be in support of our Brothers and Sisters who are fighting for their lives and their Unions in Wisconsin. The rally will also be a demonstration to the Governor of New Jersey that his ongoing attack on Collective Bargaining for our members and all Public Sector Union Members will be met with the same vehemence as what's going on in Wisconsin. It is vitally important for the survival of the Labor Movement and the survival of the Middle Class that we all come together not only Unions but also every group that has a stake in saving the American Dream.Make no mistake if they succeed in Wisconsin and New Jersey they will be coming for the private sector unions and the rest of the Middle Class next.On Friday February 25, 2011 - Every Union member should wear RED and we should encourage everyone who supports the American Dream to wear RED in support of our Rally IN Trenton and the Fight in Wisconsin.CWA will be sponsoring a Nationwide Stewards Meeting (Conference Call) on Wednesday night tentative time 7:30 pm. Every CWA Steward should be on that call. Every Local should contact their Stewards to alert them, as the details become available we will get them to you. Also any Local that can send people to Trenton on Friday at 12 noon should do so to demonstrate shoulder to shoulder arm in arm with your Brothers and Sisters CWA members from the Public Sector. Tentatively scheduled to speak at the Rally are Richard Trumka President of the AFL-CIO, Larry Cohen President of CWA and even more importantly Workers from Wisconsin. See you Friday in Trenton,Chris Shelton, Vice President
January 30, 2011VT AFL-CIO COPE Conference, Barre, VT
January 8, 2011Contract Campaign and Organizing Strategy Session.CWA 1400 President Don Trementozzi andIBEW 2222 Business Manager Myles Calvey
November 17, 2010Swearing in to office, new District Vice President:Theresa Dobson, District 2
October 29, 2010N.H. Governor John Lynch visits Manchester SRC, Fairpoint, NNE:
October 21, 2010
Press ReleaseFor immediate release: October 21, 2010For more info contact: Ralph Montefusco (802) 598-5613 or Rand Wilson (617) 803-0799
CWA Local 1400's New Hampshire members get the facts on key issues before Nov. 2 electionManchester - Union leaders visited members in New Hampshire on October 20 to talk about key economic issues before voting on Nov. 2.The Local 1400 Political Action Team distributed an educational leaflet at FairPoint's Holt Avenue Call Center in Manchester, N.H. where about 50 members work. They were joined by IBEW local union leaders who also have members at the same facility.The educational leaflets showed where New Hampshire candidates for U.S. Senate and Congress stand on jobs, unemployment and social security.The political education was jointly sponsored by the IBEW and the New Hampshire AFL-CIO.Based on the candidates' records, the unions recommended support for Senate candidate Paul Hodes, District One Congressional candidate Carol Shea-Porter and District Two Congressional candidate Ann McLane Kuster."We don't want our members to get distracted by all of the political noise," said Don Trementozzi, president of Local 1400. "No matter what political party you are associated with, there is a clear difference between the candidates on important pocketbook issues that are the priority for working class families.""After our members learn the facts, we hope they will vote with their economic self-interest in mind," Trementozzi added.The response from the union's membership appeared to be very enthusiastic. More than 60 members have joined the local's political action program since union leaders visited members in Vermont on Oct. 18 and New Hampshire yesterday.CWA Local 1400 unites more than 200 members and their families who live in New Hampshire. Local 1400 members work for FairPoint Communications, Verizon and AT&T mobility.
Rand Wilson
Press ReleaseFor immediate release: October 21, 2010For more info contact: Ralph Montefusco (802) 598-5613 or Rand Wilson (617) 803-0799
CWA Local 1400's New Hampshire members get the facts on key issues before Nov. 2 electionManchester - Union leaders visited members in New Hampshire on October 20 to talk about key economic issues before voting on Nov. 2.The Local 1400 Political Action Team distributed an educational leaflet at FairPoint's Holt Avenue Call Center in Manchester, N.H. where about 50 members work. They were joined by IBEW local union leaders who also have members at the same facility.The educational leaflets showed where New Hampshire candidates for U.S. Senate and Congress stand on jobs, unemployment and social security.The political education was jointly sponsored by the IBEW and the New Hampshire AFL-CIO.Based on the candidates' records, the unions recommended support for Senate candidate Paul Hodes, District One Congressional candidate Carol Shea-Porter and District Two Congressional candidate Ann McLane Kuster."We don't want our members to get distracted by all of the political noise," said Don Trementozzi, president of Local 1400. "No matter what political party you are associated with, there is a clear difference between the candidates on important pocketbook issues that are the priority for working class families.""After our members learn the facts, we hope they will vote with their economic self-interest in mind," Trementozzi added.The response from the union's membership appeared to be very enthusiastic. More than 60 members have joined the local's political action program since union leaders visited members in Vermont on Oct. 18 and New Hampshire yesterday.CWA Local 1400 unites more than 200 members and their families who live in New Hampshire. Local 1400 members work for FairPoint Communications, Verizon and AT&T mobility.
Rand Wilson
October 19, 2010For immediate release: October 19, 2010For more info contact: Rand Wilson, 617 803-0799 Temp call center workers win permanent jobs at FairPointAdditional new union jobs will improve quality of serviceNinety call center employees at FairPoint facilities in Portland and Bangor, Maine, Manchester, N.H. and Burlington, Vt. have won permanent status after a year-and-a-half battle with management.FairPoint has also agreed to create 15 new positions at its Burlington Customer Service Center, 10 new Outbound Marketing jobs in various locations and 8 jobs at in a new Customer Satisfaction Department in Portland."Job security is hard to get in this economy," said Cathy Calden, a two-year temp from Richmond, Maine who was made permanent at the Portland Residential Call Center by the agreement. "So we are really thrilled to finally become permanent employees."As permanent workers, the 90 workers will gain broader contract rights and stronger job security protections in CWA Local 1400's collective bargaining agreement."We work hard and deliver the best service possible for our customers," added Calden. "We showed management that we want to be here, and in exchange we deserve to be fully part of the company. It feels good."The agreements were reached with FairPoint management on October 13, 2010."With these agreements, everyone can see the benefits of belonging to a union and gaining a real voice on the job," said CWA Local 1400 President Don Trementozzi. "Not only are FairPoint's employees better off, but we expect significant improvements in the quality of service as well."CWA Local 1400 unites FairPoint employees who work in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont.Local 1400 also represents workers at Verizon and AT&T throughout New England.
Rand WilsonCenter for Strategic Research, AFL-CIO
Rand WilsonCenter for Strategic Research, AFL-CIO
October 18, 2010Press ReleaseFor immediate release: October 18, 2010For more info contact: Ralph Montefusco (802) 598-5613 or Rand Wilson (617) 803-0799
CWA Local 1400 Members endorse Peter Shumlin for Vermont GovernorBurlington - CWA Local 1400's Political Action Team announced that after carefully considering both candidates, it will support Peter Shumlin for election as governor of Vermont."This decision was not made lightly or easily," said Local 1400 VP Mike O'Day. "Peter Shumlin's commitment to our issues satisfied our committee's concerns. He is a consensus builder and will stay focused on the economic issues that matter most to us. We are confident that he is the best candidate to lead our state for telecom workers and for all working families."O'Day works as a customer service rep. for FairPoint Communications in Burlington and is a resident of Fairfax."In tough economic times like these, it's important to examine the candidates' records to make sure they share the priorities of working families," said Don Trementozzi, president of Local 1400. "With support from CWA District One, we carefully researched both candidates on the issues affecting our jobs and the telecom industry. Without a doubt, Peter Shumlin is the best candidate to lead Vermont.""Throughout his career in the legislature, Peter Shumlin has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with us on telecom policy and employment issues," added O'Day. "He will be a powerful advocate of broadband for all Vermonters and he will make sure that the federal and state tax dollars used to build the network will be well spent."The endorsement announcement was made at Peter Shumlin's campaign headquarters in Burlington on October 18.CWA Local 1400 unites more than 200 workers and their families in Vermont. Local 1400 members work for FairPoint Communications and AT&T mobility.Local 1400's Political Action Team will begin educating its members and the public about why Peter Shumlin is the best choice for working families at its bi-annual membership meeting on Saturday, October 23, at the IBEW hall in Burlington.
Rand WilsonCenter for Strategic Research, AFL-CIO
CWA Local 1400 Members endorse Peter Shumlin for Vermont GovernorBurlington - CWA Local 1400's Political Action Team announced that after carefully considering both candidates, it will support Peter Shumlin for election as governor of Vermont."This decision was not made lightly or easily," said Local 1400 VP Mike O'Day. "Peter Shumlin's commitment to our issues satisfied our committee's concerns. He is a consensus builder and will stay focused on the economic issues that matter most to us. We are confident that he is the best candidate to lead our state for telecom workers and for all working families."O'Day works as a customer service rep. for FairPoint Communications in Burlington and is a resident of Fairfax."In tough economic times like these, it's important to examine the candidates' records to make sure they share the priorities of working families," said Don Trementozzi, president of Local 1400. "With support from CWA District One, we carefully researched both candidates on the issues affecting our jobs and the telecom industry. Without a doubt, Peter Shumlin is the best candidate to lead Vermont.""Throughout his career in the legislature, Peter Shumlin has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with us on telecom policy and employment issues," added O'Day. "He will be a powerful advocate of broadband for all Vermonters and he will make sure that the federal and state tax dollars used to build the network will be well spent."The endorsement announcement was made at Peter Shumlin's campaign headquarters in Burlington on October 18.CWA Local 1400 unites more than 200 workers and their families in Vermont. Local 1400 members work for FairPoint Communications and AT&T mobility.Local 1400's Political Action Team will begin educating its members and the public about why Peter Shumlin is the best choice for working families at its bi-annual membership meeting on Saturday, October 23, at the IBEW hall in Burlington.
Rand WilsonCenter for Strategic Research, AFL-CIO
October 2, 2010"One Nation" Rally, Washington, DC: 10/2/10
September 3, 2010One of (2) Melissa Morin scholarship winners: Jennifer Aubin with her mother Danielle. Jennifer is attending Castleton State College, Castleton, VT. Her mother is a 15 year service rep in the CSSC. Mike O'Day, V.P., District 6 - Vermont, presented Jennifer with the scholarship award.
September 3, 2010Second of (2) winners: Daniel Griffin. His mother, Patricia Griffin, has been with Verizon for 23 years and currently is in the Taunton, CSSC. Gregg Irving, VP District 3-SE Massachusetts, presented Patricia with the scholarship award.
September 2, 2010"One Nation" Do Not Miss this Historical Day in Washington, DC on October 2nd!
August 5, 2010International Brotherhood of Electrical WorkersCommunications Workers of AmericaPress ReleaseFor immediate releaseFor more info contact: Rand Wilson (617) 929-6000
Telecom workers begin year-long campaign for good jobs and reliable services at VerizonBoston-Hundreds of telephone workers united in the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the Communications Workers of America (CWA) rallied for good jobs on Thursday, August 5 at Verizon's New England headquarters."A year before our contracts expire, we're sending a message to Verizon's top management that we'll fight for the preservation of good jobs, quality health care and secure pension benefits in negotiations next year," said Myles Calvey, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2222 and chair of the New England telephone workers' bargaining committee. The current agreement with Verizon expires on August 6, 2011."Some very profitable companies are using the recession as an excuse to demand givebacks and concessions from their employees," added Calvey. "We want to make it clear to management that union members aren't going to fall for that nonsense at Verizon."Other speakers at the rally included Lt. Gov. Tim Murray; Congressman Stephen F. Lynch; Rep. Marty Walsh; Massachusetts AFL-CIO President Bob Haynes; Rich Rogers, Executive Sec-Treas, Greater Boston Labor Council; Ed Fitzpatrick, President, IBEW Local 2222; Don Trementozzi, President, CWA Local 1400; John Laughlin, Painters D.C. 35; Peter Derouen, UFCW Local 791; Ed Kelly, President, Boston Firefighters Local 718; Bill McGowan, Business Manager, IBEW Local 2323; Ed Starr, Business Manager, IBEW Local 2321; Dave Keating, Business Manager, IBEW Local 2325; and John Rowley, Business Manager, IBEW Local 2324.Verizon's second quarter finances showed $9.8 billion in cash flow from operations, up nearly 30 percent from 2009. The $108 billion company had $5.5 billion in free cash flow, up nearly 77 percent from the second quarter in 2009.Verizon had significant job cuts in 2010. There are now 24,500 fewer employees than one year ago -- and it spent $2.3 billion in the second quarter dealing with union negotiated buyouts to avoid layoffs. "We protected our members during unprecedented job cuts," said Calvey. "But I expect that job security will continue to be a major issue in next year's contract talks."The workforce reductions, buyouts and layoffs in recent years stem largely from landline losses, but also from Verizon's massive shift away from rural America. Despite strong union opposition, Verizon has sold off its landlines in Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and most recently in 14 other states, substantially reducing union membership.Meanwhile, the company has focused its investments in the largely unregulated -- and as yet mostly nonunion wireless side of its business."Verizon's top management has built an artificial wall separating wireless and other business operations from wireline," said Don Trementozzi, President of CWA Local 1400. "Management is using this wall to block members from the high growth, high profit segments of the company.""We are gearing up to fight for enhanced organizing rights for Verizon Wireless workers and to help them unite for wages and working conditions comparable to ours," added Trementozzi. "If we don't, Verizon will continue to use its 'divide and conquer' tactics to undermine our contracts." Local 1400 represents hundreds of Verizon workers at call centers throughout Massachusetts.Both unions have been educating members and building support for enhanced organizing rights for Verizon Wireless employees. Members at IBEW Local 2222 and delegates to the recent CWA national convention have passed resolutions in support of the campaign.Because customer and community support is so critical to winning good contracts, telecom workers have been building support in anticipation of the 2011 contract.Members at both unions very actively supported striking workers at Shaw's Methuen warehouse. "I'll be there to support the telephone workers," said UFCW Local 791 member Laurie Comeau-Hunter Mahoney. "We can never repay IBEW and CWA enough for all that they have done for Shaw's workers."Pictures from the rally may be viewed on the Picasa photo sharing website at:http://picasaweb.google.com/randwilson.aflcio/AYearAndADayVerizonContractCampaignRallyAbout 8,000 Verizon workers in Massachusetts and Rhode Island are united in the IBEW and CWA.
Telecom workers begin year-long campaign for good jobs and reliable services at VerizonBoston-Hundreds of telephone workers united in the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the Communications Workers of America (CWA) rallied for good jobs on Thursday, August 5 at Verizon's New England headquarters."A year before our contracts expire, we're sending a message to Verizon's top management that we'll fight for the preservation of good jobs, quality health care and secure pension benefits in negotiations next year," said Myles Calvey, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2222 and chair of the New England telephone workers' bargaining committee. The current agreement with Verizon expires on August 6, 2011."Some very profitable companies are using the recession as an excuse to demand givebacks and concessions from their employees," added Calvey. "We want to make it clear to management that union members aren't going to fall for that nonsense at Verizon."Other speakers at the rally included Lt. Gov. Tim Murray; Congressman Stephen F. Lynch; Rep. Marty Walsh; Massachusetts AFL-CIO President Bob Haynes; Rich Rogers, Executive Sec-Treas, Greater Boston Labor Council; Ed Fitzpatrick, President, IBEW Local 2222; Don Trementozzi, President, CWA Local 1400; John Laughlin, Painters D.C. 35; Peter Derouen, UFCW Local 791; Ed Kelly, President, Boston Firefighters Local 718; Bill McGowan, Business Manager, IBEW Local 2323; Ed Starr, Business Manager, IBEW Local 2321; Dave Keating, Business Manager, IBEW Local 2325; and John Rowley, Business Manager, IBEW Local 2324.Verizon's second quarter finances showed $9.8 billion in cash flow from operations, up nearly 30 percent from 2009. The $108 billion company had $5.5 billion in free cash flow, up nearly 77 percent from the second quarter in 2009.Verizon had significant job cuts in 2010. There are now 24,500 fewer employees than one year ago -- and it spent $2.3 billion in the second quarter dealing with union negotiated buyouts to avoid layoffs. "We protected our members during unprecedented job cuts," said Calvey. "But I expect that job security will continue to be a major issue in next year's contract talks."The workforce reductions, buyouts and layoffs in recent years stem largely from landline losses, but also from Verizon's massive shift away from rural America. Despite strong union opposition, Verizon has sold off its landlines in Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and most recently in 14 other states, substantially reducing union membership.Meanwhile, the company has focused its investments in the largely unregulated -- and as yet mostly nonunion wireless side of its business."Verizon's top management has built an artificial wall separating wireless and other business operations from wireline," said Don Trementozzi, President of CWA Local 1400. "Management is using this wall to block members from the high growth, high profit segments of the company.""We are gearing up to fight for enhanced organizing rights for Verizon Wireless workers and to help them unite for wages and working conditions comparable to ours," added Trementozzi. "If we don't, Verizon will continue to use its 'divide and conquer' tactics to undermine our contracts." Local 1400 represents hundreds of Verizon workers at call centers throughout Massachusetts.Both unions have been educating members and building support for enhanced organizing rights for Verizon Wireless employees. Members at IBEW Local 2222 and delegates to the recent CWA national convention have passed resolutions in support of the campaign.Because customer and community support is so critical to winning good contracts, telecom workers have been building support in anticipation of the 2011 contract.Members at both unions very actively supported striking workers at Shaw's Methuen warehouse. "I'll be there to support the telephone workers," said UFCW Local 791 member Laurie Comeau-Hunter Mahoney. "We can never repay IBEW and CWA enough for all that they have done for Shaw's workers."Pictures from the rally may be viewed on the Picasa photo sharing website at:http://picasaweb.google.com/randwilson.aflcio/AYearAndADayVerizonContractCampaignRallyAbout 8,000 Verizon workers in Massachusetts and Rhode Island are united in the IBEW and CWA.
August 5, 2010
July 27, 2010CWA Local 1400 President, Don Trementozzi, presenting "Tear Down the Wall" (Verizon Wireless) resolution at the 72nd CWA Convention in Washington, DC on July 27, 2010. Resolution PASSED!(Resolution 72A-10-11)
Tear Down the Wall at VerizonNew technologies have led to the rapid growth of wireless telephone and data applications, while wireline telephone service is rapidly declining.Verizon's top management has built an artificial wall separating wireless and other business operations from wireline, and management is using this wall to block representation in the high growth, high profit segments of the company.Ten years ago, 70 percent of Verizon employees were represented by a union; today it is less than 30 percent.Verizon's management has aggressively interfered with the freedom of workers in Verizon Wireless (and other subsidiaries and divisions) to unite with unionized Verizon workers in the CWA and IBEW.In contrast, CWA has negotiated a card check and neutrality agreement with AT&T, Verizon's major competitor, and as a result, 40,000 AT&T Mobility workers have organized into our Union and are covered by collective bargaining agreements.Resolved: It must be a top priority to tear down the artificial wall that separates non-union Verizon wireless from the mostly union wireline side of the business. Organizing for this fight is preferable now while our unions are still a strong force within the company.Resolved: Every CWA local must make it a priority to engage and educate Verizon members and Verizon wireless employees regarding the critical importance of building worker-to-worker unity to achieve collective bargaining to gain a strong voice for the good jobs that our communities need.)
Tear Down the Wall at VerizonNew technologies have led to the rapid growth of wireless telephone and data applications, while wireline telephone service is rapidly declining.Verizon's top management has built an artificial wall separating wireless and other business operations from wireline, and management is using this wall to block representation in the high growth, high profit segments of the company.Ten years ago, 70 percent of Verizon employees were represented by a union; today it is less than 30 percent.Verizon's management has aggressively interfered with the freedom of workers in Verizon Wireless (and other subsidiaries and divisions) to unite with unionized Verizon workers in the CWA and IBEW.In contrast, CWA has negotiated a card check and neutrality agreement with AT&T, Verizon's major competitor, and as a result, 40,000 AT&T Mobility workers have organized into our Union and are covered by collective bargaining agreements.Resolved: It must be a top priority to tear down the artificial wall that separates non-union Verizon wireless from the mostly union wireline side of the business. Organizing for this fight is preferable now while our unions are still a strong force within the company.Resolved: Every CWA local must make it a priority to engage and educate Verizon members and Verizon wireless employees regarding the critical importance of building worker-to-worker unity to achieve collective bargaining to gain a strong voice for the good jobs that our communities need.)
July 24 - 28, 2010CWA National Convention, Washington, DC
June 4, 2010
IBEW Local 2222 membership joins CWA Local 1400 and adopts a "Tear Down the Wall" Resolution to expand organizing rights at Verizon
Boston -- Hundreds of telecom workers voted unanimously at IBEW Local 2222's regular membership meeting on Wednesday, June 2 to support a grassroots campaign to make "tearing down the artificial wall separating the non-union Verizon wireless from the mostly union wireline side of the business" a top priority in negotiations for their next contract in 2011.The resolution was advanced on the floor of the membership meeting by two leaders of the local's new "Futures Committee," which was established to develop new leadership at Local 2222 and within the larger labor movement."This is about all of our future as employees of Verizon," Pat Atwell told members. "Verizon is rapidly moving into the high growth, high profit areas of the telecommunications industry. But as they do so, top management is intent on leaving us – the union workers who built this company – behind."We can't let that happen," he continued. "Not if we want a future in this company for us, our children and our communities." Atwell, a Verizon splice service technician, works out of the company's Woburn garage.Chris Morgan, another Verizon technician from South Boston, seconded the resolution. "Five years ago union membership at Verizon was about 70 percent of the company. Today we are less than 30 percent. Nothing is more important than reaching out to Verizon Wireless employees regarding the benefits of collective bargaining. We need to educate them and build unity in our company to achieve a strong voice for the good jobs that our communities need."A similar resolution was also adopted by CWA Local 1400 at its May executive board meeting in Portsmouth, NH.Local union leaders hope that the "Tear Down the Wall" resolution will spread to other telecom locals in both the IBEW and the CWA.
IBEW Local 2222 membership joins CWA Local 1400 and adopts a "Tear Down the Wall" Resolution to expand organizing rights at Verizon
Boston -- Hundreds of telecom workers voted unanimously at IBEW Local 2222's regular membership meeting on Wednesday, June 2 to support a grassroots campaign to make "tearing down the artificial wall separating the non-union Verizon wireless from the mostly union wireline side of the business" a top priority in negotiations for their next contract in 2011.The resolution was advanced on the floor of the membership meeting by two leaders of the local's new "Futures Committee," which was established to develop new leadership at Local 2222 and within the larger labor movement."This is about all of our future as employees of Verizon," Pat Atwell told members. "Verizon is rapidly moving into the high growth, high profit areas of the telecommunications industry. But as they do so, top management is intent on leaving us – the union workers who built this company – behind."We can't let that happen," he continued. "Not if we want a future in this company for us, our children and our communities." Atwell, a Verizon splice service technician, works out of the company's Woburn garage.Chris Morgan, another Verizon technician from South Boston, seconded the resolution. "Five years ago union membership at Verizon was about 70 percent of the company. Today we are less than 30 percent. Nothing is more important than reaching out to Verizon Wireless employees regarding the benefits of collective bargaining. We need to educate them and build unity in our company to achieve a strong voice for the good jobs that our communities need."A similar resolution was also adopted by CWA Local 1400 at its May executive board meeting in Portsmouth, NH.Local union leaders hope that the "Tear Down the Wall" resolution will spread to other telecom locals in both the IBEW and the CWA.
May 7, 2010Verizon exec, union square off at meeting - Landline sale to Frontier upsets workers By Toby Mantheyhttp://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2010/may/07/verizon-exec-union-square-meeting-20100507/?subscriber/business LITTLE ROCK — New York-based Verizon Communications Chief Executive Ivan Seidenberg on Thursday faced union workers upset about his company’s pending $8.6 billion sale of rural landline assets to Frontier Communications. The exchange was at the Peabody Little Rock hotel at Verizon’s annual shareholders meeting, which about 200 people attended. Verizon said last month that it varies the gathering’s location each year to make it convenient for shareholders around the nation. Several dozen members of the Communications Workers of America union - at the meeting and on the nearby sidewalk in front of the Statehouse Convention Center - spoke out against Verizon layoffs nationwide, as well as those they said will come from the sale of rural phone lines to Frontier. Verizon, which has about 220,000 employees, laid off 7,413 in the fourth quarter, The Associated Press reported in late January. The company said at the beginning of the year that it expects about 13,000 positions to be cut on the wireline side of the company this year, about the same as in 2009, the AP said. No mention was made during the meeting of the cuts that Verizon Wireless, which is co-owned by Verizon Communications and Vodafone, has made in Arkansas. About 600 people have lost jobs in the state since Verizon bought Little Rock-based Alltel Corp. in January 2009. (Verizon has said layoffs at the Little Rock headquarters will be less than originally thought.) Mark Franken of Austin, Texas, one of the protesters outside the meeting, said Frontier’s deal to buy the rural assets in 14 states is bad for Verizon workers and affected communities. “Anytime these companies merge, they cut jobs,” Franken said. The protesters - who Franken said were from Arkansas, Texas and the East Coast - also were on hand Wednesday, protesting other issues at Little Rock-based Windstream Corp.’s annual meeting, also in downtown Little Rock. Union representatives said they also opposed the sale of rural landline assets because Frontier will take on a large amount of debt and, they said, be unable to invest in their broadband network, which is necessary for the economic growth of communities. Companies that bought lines from Verizon in the past have gone into bankruptcy, they said, such as FairPoint Communications, which bought Verizon lines in New England, as well as Hawaiian Telecom, which bought Verizon lines in Hawaii. Seidenberg said at the meeting that he wouldn’t address every point on the Frontier deal made by the workers. “You guys don’t like it; we like it,” he said. “We already know that.” But he said he thinks affected communities will see better broadband service through the sale, which was announced a year ago and is to close in mid-2010. Frontier is focused on rural landline service, while Verizon concentrates on urban wireless service, he said. Seidenberg said Verizon has no plans currently to sell any more of the landlines. Arkansas is not one of the states affected by the Frontier sale. All proposals introduced by Verizon shareholders were voted down by majorities. Among the measures were a proposal for a policy to prevent discrimination based on sexual identity; a shareholder right to call special meetings, and a proposal that would tie the vesting or paying out of stock awards with company performance. Verizon’s board of directors had opposed the proposals. Several of the proposals achieved more than 30 percent support by shareholders in preliminary results. One, a proposal to require shareholder approval for agreements or policies that would pay benefits for executives after death, garnered more than 40 percent. The Firefighters’ Pension System of Kansas City, which sponsored the proposal, said executives could pay for such benefits themselves, such as by buying life insurance. Also at the meeting, Verizon’s 13 directors were elected; Ernst & Young was approved as the company’s independent auditor; and shareholders approved Verizon’s overall pay-for-performance policies. This article was published today at 3:36 a.m.Business, Pages 29 on 05/07/2010
Copyright © 2010, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Inc Rand WilsonCenter for Strategic Research, AFL-CIO
Copyright © 2010, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Inc Rand WilsonCenter for Strategic Research, AFL-CIO
April 29, 2010What a weekend! 1,200 amazing troublemakers descended on Detroit.There was so much energy and knowledge on display. You blew us away.
Share your experiencesWe're already planning how to make Labor Notes events even stronger. You can help by sharing your experiences with us. Four simple questions; just press reply and send us your thoughts.
Photos, videos, tweets: lots of action onlineClick over to labornotes.org to see an amazing set of conference photos from Jim West and Jon Flanders. Check out our Twitter feed or join our Facebook page to see what everyone had to say.
We've got videos of the locked-out California miners receiving their Troublemaker Award, as well as the actions to support the fired Hyatt 100 housekeepers in Boston and the Restaurant Opportunities Center's picket against a wage-thieving restaurant just a mile down the road from the conference.
Let's take it furtherWe're eager to spread the conference spirit and deepen the Labor Notes network through Troublemaker Schools, one-day mini-conferences we're holding throughout the country in between the big national events. Didn't have a chance to make it to the planning session for these schools during the Saturday lunch? Let us know if you want one in your town, especially if your local could host.
Keep in touchWebsite: www.labornotes.orgPhone: 313-842-6262Email: conference@labornotes.orgEblast updates: Get on the list at www.labornotes.org/eblast.Facebook: www.facebook.com/labornotes Help us fund the low-wage workers who came from across the country to the conference: www.labornotes.org/donate
Share your experiencesWe're already planning how to make Labor Notes events even stronger. You can help by sharing your experiences with us. Four simple questions; just press reply and send us your thoughts.
- What stood out the most to you, good or bad?
- Who was the most interesting person you met? Story you heard?
- What could you have lived without?
- How are you going to use what you learned? What plans are you making with people you met at Labor Notes?
Photos, videos, tweets: lots of action onlineClick over to labornotes.org to see an amazing set of conference photos from Jim West and Jon Flanders. Check out our Twitter feed or join our Facebook page to see what everyone had to say.
We've got videos of the locked-out California miners receiving their Troublemaker Award, as well as the actions to support the fired Hyatt 100 housekeepers in Boston and the Restaurant Opportunities Center's picket against a wage-thieving restaurant just a mile down the road from the conference.
Let's take it furtherWe're eager to spread the conference spirit and deepen the Labor Notes network through Troublemaker Schools, one-day mini-conferences we're holding throughout the country in between the big national events. Didn't have a chance to make it to the planning session for these schools during the Saturday lunch? Let us know if you want one in your town, especially if your local could host.
Keep in touchWebsite: www.labornotes.orgPhone: 313-842-6262Email: conference@labornotes.orgEblast updates: Get on the list at www.labornotes.org/eblast.Facebook: www.facebook.com/labornotes Help us fund the low-wage workers who came from across the country to the conference: www.labornotes.org/donate
April 24, 2010
CWA/Verizon - California -Bargaining Bulletin: Tentative Agreement ReachedBARGAINING BULLETIN #54
The Union and the Company bargaining committees have reached a tentative agreement today. Brief highlights of the Core agreement are:*Wage increases of 2.75% for each of the 3 years.*Sales Incentive Compensation Plan remains voluntary! 7A wage schedule increased.*New MOA on Contractors, requiring the Company to report the contracting of “bargaining unit work” on a monthly basis.*Verizon Business and Video Hub work moved into the Core agreement.*No employee medical contributions.*New Medical PPO plan effective Jan 2011 for all employees.Brief highlights of Regional Wire Service agreement are:*Additional holidays*Wage increases of 2.75% for each of the 3 yearsMore details to follow!Many “Thanks” to all of the members who actively participated in the bargaining process through your support and mobilization.In Solidarity,Your Bargaining CommitteeLisa Shafer, David Goodwin, Mike Frost, Ellen West, Ed Venegas, Gregg Gibson
CWA/Verizon - California -Bargaining Bulletin: Tentative Agreement ReachedBARGAINING BULLETIN #54
The Union and the Company bargaining committees have reached a tentative agreement today. Brief highlights of the Core agreement are:*Wage increases of 2.75% for each of the 3 years.*Sales Incentive Compensation Plan remains voluntary! 7A wage schedule increased.*New MOA on Contractors, requiring the Company to report the contracting of “bargaining unit work” on a monthly basis.*Verizon Business and Video Hub work moved into the Core agreement.*No employee medical contributions.*New Medical PPO plan effective Jan 2011 for all employees.Brief highlights of Regional Wire Service agreement are:*Additional holidays*Wage increases of 2.75% for each of the 3 yearsMore details to follow!Many “Thanks” to all of the members who actively participated in the bargaining process through your support and mobilization.In Solidarity,Your Bargaining CommitteeLisa Shafer, David Goodwin, Mike Frost, Ellen West, Ed Venegas, Gregg Gibson
April 18, 2010Thank you to all who attended the Bi-Annual CWA Local 1400 Membership Meeting.We had 70 Members in attendance!
April 29, 2010This is a link to a YouTube video of our organizing efforts in Maine for T-Mobile last week. Tim Dubnau is our CWA District 1 Organizer (recording the video). Local 1400 Organizer Sheila McGillicuddy can be heard in the background! Great job everyone!(No one was arrested...)
April 6, 2010 Don Trementozzi, President, CWA Local 1400, has been appointed by Larry Cohen, President of CWA, to serve on the 2010 Appeals Committee at the CWA 72nd Annual Convention. He is one of four Presidents that will serve on this Committee.*The Appeals Committee is charged with the responsibility of hearing and acting upon any matter that may be referred to the Committee prior to or during the Convention and will make a report to the Convention.*Congratulations, Don!
CWA Takes on Verizon Over FMLA Abuses
CWA has filed a lawsuit charging Verizon Communications with denying workers the rights and protections of the Family and Medical Leave Act. The class action lawsuit covers Verizon workers in Districts 1, 2 and 13. (Local 1400 is District 1)CWA and individual workers have laid out extensive complaints against Verizon. “Verizon has created a number of arbitrary administrative procedures that it requires workers to follow if they want to be certified for FMLA, but these procedures are not a part of the FMLA law. They shouldn’t be used to deny workers their rightful FMLA benefits, but that’s exactly what Verizon is doing,” said CWA General Counsel Mary O’Melveny.FMLA provides workers at companies with 50 or more employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year for the birth or adoption of a child; care of a spouse, parent or a child under 18 for a serious health condition; care of a child over 18 with mental or physical disabilities, and an employee’s own illness.Verizon’s policies are a real Catch-22:If a worker followed verbal instructions from the company’s absence reporting center, and those instructions were wrong, though the worker didn’t know it, the claim is denied.
If a worker couldn’t file the full report on time, because her doctor was on vacation or unavailable, the claim is denied. If another physician in the same office completed the report, but didn’t spell out the relationship between the two medical providers, the claim is denied.
If information was missing from the claim, for example, the doctor’s office didn’t complete an item, the claim is denied.
If a supervisor makes an error in reporting a workers’ claim, it’s denied.At Verizon, as far as FMLA is concerned, once a claim is denied twice, a worker loses her FMLA rights.
CWA has filed a lawsuit charging Verizon Communications with denying workers the rights and protections of the Family and Medical Leave Act. The class action lawsuit covers Verizon workers in Districts 1, 2 and 13. (Local 1400 is District 1)CWA and individual workers have laid out extensive complaints against Verizon. “Verizon has created a number of arbitrary administrative procedures that it requires workers to follow if they want to be certified for FMLA, but these procedures are not a part of the FMLA law. They shouldn’t be used to deny workers their rightful FMLA benefits, but that’s exactly what Verizon is doing,” said CWA General Counsel Mary O’Melveny.FMLA provides workers at companies with 50 or more employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year for the birth or adoption of a child; care of a spouse, parent or a child under 18 for a serious health condition; care of a child over 18 with mental or physical disabilities, and an employee’s own illness.Verizon’s policies are a real Catch-22:If a worker followed verbal instructions from the company’s absence reporting center, and those instructions were wrong, though the worker didn’t know it, the claim is denied.
If a worker couldn’t file the full report on time, because her doctor was on vacation or unavailable, the claim is denied. If another physician in the same office completed the report, but didn’t spell out the relationship between the two medical providers, the claim is denied.
If information was missing from the claim, for example, the doctor’s office didn’t complete an item, the claim is denied.
If a supervisor makes an error in reporting a workers’ claim, it’s denied.At Verizon, as far as FMLA is concerned, once a claim is denied twice, a worker loses her FMLA rights.
2009
2009
Local 1400 Verizon Members,
Verizon has announced another surplus in our Local and many other locals in New York and New England. CWA National and Local Leaders don't agree that we have a surplus. Our work is being moved around the country and vendors are doing our work in violation of our contract. Verizon has laid off CWA members in NY and IBEW members in NE, in violation of our contracts. Make no mistake Verizon is declaring war on us and we will be fighting back! CWA National Union Dist-1 is coordinating an all out attack. We have filed National Labor Relation Board charges and law suits and grievances. We need volunteers to help leaflet Verizon Wireless customers and other planned actions. Please call the local union office 603-436-4388 or email at clocal1400@aol.com to volunteer. Thank you for your support.
Don TrementozziCWA Local 1400President
Verizon has announced another surplus in our Local and many other locals in New York and New England. CWA National and Local Leaders don't agree that we have a surplus. Our work is being moved around the country and vendors are doing our work in violation of our contract. Verizon has laid off CWA members in NY and IBEW members in NE, in violation of our contracts. Make no mistake Verizon is declaring war on us and we will be fighting back! CWA National Union Dist-1 is coordinating an all out attack. We have filed National Labor Relation Board charges and law suits and grievances. We need volunteers to help leaflet Verizon Wireless customers and other planned actions. Please call the local union office 603-436-4388 or email at clocal1400@aol.com to volunteer. Thank you for your support.
Don TrementozziCWA Local 1400President
A Day in the Life of a Telephone ManRequiem For A Heavyweight, Telephone Labor Division
Twenty years ago this December, the large Dorchester, Massachusetts, clan of Jerry "Judgie" Leary was, like many other telephone worker families in the Northeast, not exactly flush with cash for Christmas presents.
Jerry and 60,000 other members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the Communications Workers (CWA) had just spent four grueling, impoverishing months on the picket line battling NYNEX, the regional telecom giant now known as Verizon.
Memories of that strike include first-time-ever visits to food banks, the loss of job-based medical benefits because NYNEX cut them off, and the dismissal, suspension, or arrest of hundreds of union activists in New York and New England. In Westchester County, New York, a CWA picket captain with several young children was hit by a car driven by a scab and died of brain injuries; in New Hampshire, an IBEW striker was killed in an industrial accident while trying to do an unfamiliar factory job to feed his family...Read the full article here
Twenty years ago this December, the large Dorchester, Massachusetts, clan of Jerry "Judgie" Leary was, like many other telephone worker families in the Northeast, not exactly flush with cash for Christmas presents.
Jerry and 60,000 other members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the Communications Workers (CWA) had just spent four grueling, impoverishing months on the picket line battling NYNEX, the regional telecom giant now known as Verizon.
Memories of that strike include first-time-ever visits to food banks, the loss of job-based medical benefits because NYNEX cut them off, and the dismissal, suspension, or arrest of hundreds of union activists in New York and New England. In Westchester County, New York, a CWA picket captain with several young children was hit by a car driven by a scab and died of brain injuries; in New Hampshire, an IBEW striker was killed in an industrial accident while trying to do an unfamiliar factory job to feed his family...Read the full article here
Hell No! Zero Givebacks!Yesterday and today over 700 members showed up for a joint IBEW / CWA meeting in Bangor and Portland Maine. The message to FairPoint members is we did not cause this problem. The overwhelming 2.5 billion dollar debt and organizational chaos is the reason. The members response to the $30 million annual concessions is "Hell no! Tell them "0" givebacks. We have given and continue to give them our blood, sweat and tears!"
Unions: Fairpoint requests are unfair. Concessions topic of talksWhen FairPoint purchased Verizon's landline network in northern New England last year, opposition from the two unions - Communications Workers of America Local 1400 and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 2320 - played a major role in earning FairPoint about $350 million in savings on the deal."To come back to the people that really helped you get a much sweeter deal and say, 'We need concessions now,' I think that's unfair," said Glenn Brackett, business manager of the IBEW chapter.
FairPoint workers cool to bid for cutsUnion leaders are unhappy with a FairPoint Communications Inc. request for concessions as the company struggles to avoid bankruptcy."Nickel and diming the unions is not a way to get the company back on track," said Don Trementozzi, president of Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1400.
FairPoint workers cool to bid for cutsUnion leaders are unhappy with a FairPoint Communications Inc. request for concessions as the company struggles to avoid bankruptcy."Nickel and diming the unions is not a way to get the company back on track," said Don Trementozzi, president of Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1400.
DoL Review Complete: Team Trementozzi Vindicated
Dear Members,
For those of you that are unaware, in September of 2008 there was an anonymous call to the Department of Labor making accusations of financial misuse or otherwise of the local'sfunds. Since September 2008 the local's records from 2003-2008 have been in the possession and under extensive investigation by the Department of Labor.
We are pleased to announce that the local's records were returned to us Friday, October 2, 2009. For the years in question (2003, 2004, and 2005) the Department of Labor has exonerated the previous Trementozzi administration of any wrongdoing. The agents for the Department of Labor advised that even though the records were in their possession, they did not do an investigation on years 2006, 2007 or 2008 since the September 2008 caller's accusations were about years 2003-2005.
Dear Members,
For those of you that are unaware, in September of 2008 there was an anonymous call to the Department of Labor making accusations of financial misuse or otherwise of the local'sfunds. Since September 2008 the local's records from 2003-2008 have been in the possession and under extensive investigation by the Department of Labor.
We are pleased to announce that the local's records were returned to us Friday, October 2, 2009. For the years in question (2003, 2004, and 2005) the Department of Labor has exonerated the previous Trementozzi administration of any wrongdoing. The agents for the Department of Labor advised that even though the records were in their possession, they did not do an investigation on years 2006, 2007 or 2008 since the September 2008 caller's accusations were about years 2003-2005.
CWA District One members show strong support for appointing temporary Senator from Massachusetts
Over 50 members from five Massachusetts locals attend statehouse hearingBoston -- CWA District One members showed strong union support for appointing a temporary interim Senator to fill Sen. Kennedy's seat at the Massachusetts legislature's Joint Committee on Election Laws hearing. "With the passing of Sen. Ted Kennedy two weeks ago, Massachusetts has only one U.S. senator," said Don Trementozzi, President of CWA Local 1400. "This has left Massachusetts working families with only partial representation during critical fights in the Senate on health care reform and the Employee Free Choice Act." CWA Local 1400 members work at Verizon and AT&T."We could be just one vote short of the 60 votes we'll need in the Senate to get legislation passed this year," said Lynda Nordyke, President of CWA Local 1302. "It is imperative that we have full representation as soon as possible." CWA Local 1302 members work at Idearc.The hearing at the Massachusetts State House on House Bill 656 packed Gardner Auditorium. And no group had a larger -- or more visible -- turnout than CWA, whose members filled an entire section of the room with their colorful red t-shirts. Other CWA local unions with members attending the hearing included Local 1300/AEEF, 1301 and 201.House Bill 656 would not impact the special election scheduled for January 19, 2010, but it would allow Massachusetts to have full Senate representation in the interim period."Every day, U.S. Senators cast critical votes on issues essential to the people of Massachusetts," said Paul Bouchard, a CWA District One Representative and former Lucent Technologies employee. "There are lots of important issues coming up. All the other states have two senators for the next six months. We should too."
Over 50 members from five Massachusetts locals attend statehouse hearingBoston -- CWA District One members showed strong union support for appointing a temporary interim Senator to fill Sen. Kennedy's seat at the Massachusetts legislature's Joint Committee on Election Laws hearing. "With the passing of Sen. Ted Kennedy two weeks ago, Massachusetts has only one U.S. senator," said Don Trementozzi, President of CWA Local 1400. "This has left Massachusetts working families with only partial representation during critical fights in the Senate on health care reform and the Employee Free Choice Act." CWA Local 1400 members work at Verizon and AT&T."We could be just one vote short of the 60 votes we'll need in the Senate to get legislation passed this year," said Lynda Nordyke, President of CWA Local 1302. "It is imperative that we have full representation as soon as possible." CWA Local 1302 members work at Idearc.The hearing at the Massachusetts State House on House Bill 656 packed Gardner Auditorium. And no group had a larger -- or more visible -- turnout than CWA, whose members filled an entire section of the room with their colorful red t-shirts. Other CWA local unions with members attending the hearing included Local 1300/AEEF, 1301 and 201.House Bill 656 would not impact the special election scheduled for January 19, 2010, but it would allow Massachusetts to have full Senate representation in the interim period."Every day, U.S. Senators cast critical votes on issues essential to the people of Massachusetts," said Paul Bouchard, a CWA District One Representative and former Lucent Technologies employee. "There are lots of important issues coming up. All the other states have two senators for the next six months. We should too."
US Vice President Joe Biden thanks the CWA for our support
Call center workers vote to ratify first agreement with FairPoint
South China and Winthrop, Maine -- A year after forming a new union with CWA Local 1400, customer service representatives at two FairPoint Communications call centers in Maine ratified their first union contract on August 5. The 55 workers are based at FairPoint facilities in Winthrop and South China, Maine."This is a big win for the employees of FairPoint, providing us with much needed job security in these hard economic times," said Lance Gagne, a customer service rep. Job security provisions in the agreement provide protections against subcontracting, and severance pay and recall rights in the case of layoffs. The agreement is for five years. "This agreement achieves many of the members' key goals," said Don Trementozzi, President of CWA Local 1400. "We won a strong grievance procedure with due process rights, bidding rights on new jobs, and company recognition of workers' seniority rights." The new union members will maintain the same health care benefits that are currently afforded to managers."It was great to see so many people pull together to put together this agreement," said Cathy Coolidge, who works as a customer service rep. "Everyone at FairPoint can take credit for this, and everyone can be proud!"Another 350 FairPoint employees are united in Local 1400 who work in New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont. CWA Local 1400 also represents workers at Verizon and AT&T throughout New England.
Congratulations Fairpoint Classic Members!!!YOU DID IT!
The CWA Local 1400 bargaining committee has reached a tentative agreement with Fairpoint Classic! Your committee worked hard right up into the final hours, led by Keri Evinson & Paul Bouchard.Fairpoint Telecom: First Ever Contract Highlights
Vacation: although we will still be accruing vacation based on the chart currently located in our handbook…we will now be allowed to schedule/use all the vacation we will accrue over a course of the year! No more waiting until you earn the time for Vacations!!!
Subcontracting of Work: Fairpoint cannot subcontract out our work or share it with other centers if it will result in a layoff for the S. China call center employees.
Severance: If there is a layoff, you can choose to be placed on a recall list for 1 year OR take a lump sum payment of 1 week per year you were employed with the company.
Insurance: for now, the insurance will stay as it is. We will continue to get the same benefits as Fairpoint managers, meaning if their plan changes in 2010, so will ours. In November 2011, Fairpoint has agreed to reopen the contract to address the matter of Insurance.
Posting and Promotion: Senior qualified candidates will be placed in the positions they apply for. Positions will no longer be filled based misc. criteria. If you are able to do the job you will get it if you are the most senior candidate.
Overtime: The use of PTO will be used in the calculations of Overtime!!! You will be given a 24 hour notice on mandatory OT on an already scheduled work day and 4 days notice if that OT is to be worked on a non scheduled day. If they call a half hour lunch, you will be notified 2 hours prior to the start of your lunch break.
PTO: will still be accrued in the manner laid out in our hand book…but don’t forget, it is used in the calculation of overtime!
Grievance Process: Ok guys, this is huge!! We now have what is known as a “Just Cause Standard” . This means that the company must have a valid reason for disciplining you and that reason can’t be because they felt like it. If you are disciplined and you file a grievance, the company now has to prove that the discipline was reasonable, they are going to be held accountable. Everyone will be treated the same and treated fair. Even though we have had an interim process, it didn’t have a Just Cause Standard….we do now!!
Seniority: The company has agreed to recognize the concept of Seniority.
Discipline and Discharge: We cannot grieve Verbal warnings, BUT…they age off after 6 months! Written warnings are grievable and will be regressed to a verbal after 9 months…said verbal will still age off after 6 months. Suspensions will age back to written after 18 months, and verbal after 9 additional months then gone after 6 additional months and are of course grievable.
On Call/Call Back Pay: If you are called back to work after your shift ends or on a day that is not a normal working day for you, you will get a MINIMUM OF 4 HOURS PAY!!!!!
Wages: We will be getting raises, more on this to follow!There is a lot more to the contract then the above mentioned items, these are just what we felt were the highlights. As always if you have questions or are wondering about anything that is not mentioned in this summary, please don’t hesitate to contact the members of the bargaining team! We will be holding a meeting and giving more information to everyone soon.We cannot thank everyone enough for the support you all have shown the bargaining team! We all did this together and we can all be proud!
South China and Winthrop, Maine -- A year after forming a new union with CWA Local 1400, customer service representatives at two FairPoint Communications call centers in Maine ratified their first union contract on August 5. The 55 workers are based at FairPoint facilities in Winthrop and South China, Maine."This is a big win for the employees of FairPoint, providing us with much needed job security in these hard economic times," said Lance Gagne, a customer service rep. Job security provisions in the agreement provide protections against subcontracting, and severance pay and recall rights in the case of layoffs. The agreement is for five years. "This agreement achieves many of the members' key goals," said Don Trementozzi, President of CWA Local 1400. "We won a strong grievance procedure with due process rights, bidding rights on new jobs, and company recognition of workers' seniority rights." The new union members will maintain the same health care benefits that are currently afforded to managers."It was great to see so many people pull together to put together this agreement," said Cathy Coolidge, who works as a customer service rep. "Everyone at FairPoint can take credit for this, and everyone can be proud!"Another 350 FairPoint employees are united in Local 1400 who work in New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont. CWA Local 1400 also represents workers at Verizon and AT&T throughout New England.
Congratulations Fairpoint Classic Members!!!YOU DID IT!
The CWA Local 1400 bargaining committee has reached a tentative agreement with Fairpoint Classic! Your committee worked hard right up into the final hours, led by Keri Evinson & Paul Bouchard.Fairpoint Telecom: First Ever Contract Highlights
Vacation: although we will still be accruing vacation based on the chart currently located in our handbook…we will now be allowed to schedule/use all the vacation we will accrue over a course of the year! No more waiting until you earn the time for Vacations!!!
Subcontracting of Work: Fairpoint cannot subcontract out our work or share it with other centers if it will result in a layoff for the S. China call center employees.
Severance: If there is a layoff, you can choose to be placed on a recall list for 1 year OR take a lump sum payment of 1 week per year you were employed with the company.
Insurance: for now, the insurance will stay as it is. We will continue to get the same benefits as Fairpoint managers, meaning if their plan changes in 2010, so will ours. In November 2011, Fairpoint has agreed to reopen the contract to address the matter of Insurance.
Posting and Promotion: Senior qualified candidates will be placed in the positions they apply for. Positions will no longer be filled based misc. criteria. If you are able to do the job you will get it if you are the most senior candidate.
Overtime: The use of PTO will be used in the calculations of Overtime!!! You will be given a 24 hour notice on mandatory OT on an already scheduled work day and 4 days notice if that OT is to be worked on a non scheduled day. If they call a half hour lunch, you will be notified 2 hours prior to the start of your lunch break.
PTO: will still be accrued in the manner laid out in our hand book…but don’t forget, it is used in the calculation of overtime!
Grievance Process: Ok guys, this is huge!! We now have what is known as a “Just Cause Standard” . This means that the company must have a valid reason for disciplining you and that reason can’t be because they felt like it. If you are disciplined and you file a grievance, the company now has to prove that the discipline was reasonable, they are going to be held accountable. Everyone will be treated the same and treated fair. Even though we have had an interim process, it didn’t have a Just Cause Standard….we do now!!
Seniority: The company has agreed to recognize the concept of Seniority.
Discipline and Discharge: We cannot grieve Verbal warnings, BUT…they age off after 6 months! Written warnings are grievable and will be regressed to a verbal after 9 months…said verbal will still age off after 6 months. Suspensions will age back to written after 18 months, and verbal after 9 additional months then gone after 6 additional months and are of course grievable.
On Call/Call Back Pay: If you are called back to work after your shift ends or on a day that is not a normal working day for you, you will get a MINIMUM OF 4 HOURS PAY!!!!!
Wages: We will be getting raises, more on this to follow!There is a lot more to the contract then the above mentioned items, these are just what we felt were the highlights. As always if you have questions or are wondering about anything that is not mentioned in this summary, please don’t hesitate to contact the members of the bargaining team! We will be holding a meeting and giving more information to everyone soon.We cannot thank everyone enough for the support you all have shown the bargaining team! We all did this together and we can all be proud!
Details for Verizon "Surplus" DeclarationHello Verizon Members, The company has sent out a notification of a surplus condition (please read attachment). While we were first told that we would not be affected we have been notified that this is not the case. A reminder that there is a no lay-off provision for those members hired before August 2nd, 2003.
CWAAdministrative AssistantMAMarlboro251 Locke DrLederman, Perla1
Taunton385 Myles Standish BlvdCahill, Brian1
1400Administrative Assistant Total2
Service RepresentativeMAAndover20 Shattuck RdCahill, Brian2
Springfield365 State StSordillo, John1
Taunton11-13 Pleasant StCahill, Brian2
385 Myles Standish BlvdCahill, Brian3
Service Representative Total8
Special AssistantMAMarlboro251 Locke DrLederman, Perla1
Taunton11-13 Pleasant StCahill, Brian4
385 Myles Standish BlvdCahill, Brian5
Special Assistant Total1020
Grand Total of "Surplus" in CWA Local 140020 At this time you can expect to receive a package in the mail for an Enhanced Income Protection Payment. These payments will be awarded, by seniority, to those in the affected job titles throughout the Involuntary Transfer Areas. These areas are Western Massachusetts, which includes only Springfield, and then all other centers in Massachusetts make up Eastern Massachusetts.
If the company gets the volunteers it needs for the IPP, the involuntary reduction in force will not occur. We will let you know if the company needs to implement any additional steps. We will update as we get information!
DonKeriKarenSumner
CWAAdministrative AssistantMAMarlboro251 Locke DrLederman, Perla1
Taunton385 Myles Standish BlvdCahill, Brian1
1400Administrative Assistant Total2
Service RepresentativeMAAndover20 Shattuck RdCahill, Brian2
Springfield365 State StSordillo, John1
Taunton11-13 Pleasant StCahill, Brian2
385 Myles Standish BlvdCahill, Brian3
Service Representative Total8
Special AssistantMAMarlboro251 Locke DrLederman, Perla1
Taunton11-13 Pleasant StCahill, Brian4
385 Myles Standish BlvdCahill, Brian5
Special Assistant Total1020
Grand Total of "Surplus" in CWA Local 140020 At this time you can expect to receive a package in the mail for an Enhanced Income Protection Payment. These payments will be awarded, by seniority, to those in the affected job titles throughout the Involuntary Transfer Areas. These areas are Western Massachusetts, which includes only Springfield, and then all other centers in Massachusetts make up Eastern Massachusetts.
If the company gets the volunteers it needs for the IPP, the involuntary reduction in force will not occur. We will let you know if the company needs to implement any additional steps. We will update as we get information!
DonKeriKarenSumner
Dress Code Talks Continue
President Trementozzi will be In New York city this week working hard for our Verizon members, bargaining Verizon's workplace attire. The talks are scheduled for Monday-Wednesday & we'll post more information as we have it.
Verizon: Get off home phoneVerizon Wireless is urging customers to “cut the cord” with their old-fashioned phone service - even though its corporate owner still has a large land-line business employing thousands of workers in Massachusetts and across the nation...“Even I got one of the fliers at home,” said Trementozzi, whose union represents about 1,000 Massachusetts Verizon workers. “The ad campaign is real crazy. It’s a big mistake.”Click here for the article
FairPoint mess puts three states in jeopardy
From The Rutland (Vermont) Herald, April 9, 2009By STEVE EARLY
When your pay, benefits or job are in jeopardy, there's little satisfaction in saying: "We told you so!"But that’s exactly what 3,500 northern New England telephone workers are entitled to tell state officials who approved Verizon’s sale to FairPoint. Their flawed regulatory decisions in Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire have put employees, customers, local businesses, and the whole regional economy at risk.
Click here to read the article.
President Trementozzi will be In New York city this week working hard for our Verizon members, bargaining Verizon's workplace attire. The talks are scheduled for Monday-Wednesday & we'll post more information as we have it.
Verizon: Get off home phoneVerizon Wireless is urging customers to “cut the cord” with their old-fashioned phone service - even though its corporate owner still has a large land-line business employing thousands of workers in Massachusetts and across the nation...“Even I got one of the fliers at home,” said Trementozzi, whose union represents about 1,000 Massachusetts Verizon workers. “The ad campaign is real crazy. It’s a big mistake.”Click here for the article
FairPoint mess puts three states in jeopardy
From The Rutland (Vermont) Herald, April 9, 2009By STEVE EARLY
When your pay, benefits or job are in jeopardy, there's little satisfaction in saying: "We told you so!"But that’s exactly what 3,500 northern New England telephone workers are entitled to tell state officials who approved Verizon’s sale to FairPoint. Their flawed regulatory decisions in Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire have put employees, customers, local businesses, and the whole regional economy at risk.
Click here to read the article.
CWA Members Ratify AT&T Mobility Contract, Raising 20,000 Workers' Wages 8.5 Percent Members of the Communications Workers of America have ratified a four-year contract with AT&T Mobility covering 20,000 workers that increases wages 8.5 percent over the four-year term and adds flexibility for the employer, the union announced April 2. In addition to a $500 lump-sum ratification bonus, all employees will receive a 1 percent hourly wage increase in 2009 and 2.5 percent hourly wage increases in 2010, 2011, and 2012. Employee benefits were agreed upon separately in a contract settled last year. The new contract applies seniority rights to all articles of the contract and letters of agreement. The AT&T Mobility "Orange" contract covers workers in the company's wireless business, a faster growing part of AT&T's business, formerly named Cingular Wireless.Going into negotiations in January, CWA said it anticipated that economic issues, job security, union rights, and workers' rights would be the key topics during bargaining. The parties reached tentative agreement March 3 (41 DLR A-1, 3/5/09). The previous contract expired at midnight Feb. 7. Mostly Customer Service, Sales, Network OrganizationEmployees covered under the contract commonly known as Mobility Orange work primarily in customer service, network organizations, and sales. The contract covers wireless workers in six CWA districts located in 36 states in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, Mountain States, and West Coast. CWA represents another 22,000 workers at AT&T Mobility covered by separate contracts in the Southeast, Southwest, and Puerto Rico. If the sales goals of the company's 11,000 full-time retail sales employees are met, contract changes in the retail stores compensation plan guarantee they will receive a minimum monthly commission of $1,000. In 2011, the annual amount will increase to $12,500. The contract upgrades various positions:. wireless technician I and II positions are reclassified as wireless technician with wages at the current wireless technician II level;. CSR I representatives in the technical support group will be upgraded to a new title of customer support specialist with a new weekly maximum rate of $683.00;. CSR I representatives in the office of the president will be upgraded to a new title of client service specialist with a new weekly maximum wage rate of $672.50;. CSR I representatives, clerks, and administrative assistants in the workforce operations group will be upgraded to a new title of workforce administrator with a new weekly maximum rate of $632.50;. CSR I representatives, clerks, and administrative assistants in the workforce operations group will be upgraded to a new title of workforce administrator with a new weekly maximum rate of $632.50; and. about 400 employees at consumer and business call centers will become customer support specialists with a new wage scale.In addition, AT&T will evaluate the CSR functions to see if additional titles should be created. On-call pay will increase to $32 per day, up from $28 per day.Seniority Rights Applied to Full Contract When shifting positions from full time to part time, AT&T now will ask first for volunteers before imposing the change in reverse seniority order. Laid-off employees will be given priority placement for rehire. The employer will issue "surplus" notifications for large employee groups 60 days in advance of the surplus, an increase from 30 days under the previous contract.Maximum severance payments are increased to $15,000 based on years of service, up from $12,000. Under the new contract, the union and company will create three strategic alliance committees to foster union-management cooperation by addressing issues of interest to both parties on a scheduled basis. "We are very pleased that this agreement has been ratified. This contract maintains our goal of providing good jobs with good compensation. As always, we appreciate our employees' dedication and their focus on our customers," AT&T spokesman Walt Sharp told BNA April 2. AT&T Inc. Contract Covers 125,000 CWA MembersMeanwhile, AT&T and CWA are continuing negotiations in six regions for a core agreement covering 125,000 workers. In March, 88 percent of voting CWA members gave union leaders authorization to call a strike at AT&T if negotiations fail to produce quality contracts, the union announced March 23. Five of the six contracts expire April 4, while one with AT&T Southeast expires in August. Collective bargaining is taking place for AT&T Legacy, AT&T East (the former Southern New England Telecommunications), AT&T West (the former Pacific Bell/Nevada Bell), AT&T Midwest (the former Ameritech), AT&T South (the former Southwestern Bell), and AT&T Southeast (the former BellSouth).While CWA has not announced specific bargaining goals for the AT&T contracts, the union has laid out issues it will address, including maintenance of quality, affordable health care, limits on subcontracted work, changing job titles and descriptions, and other job security concerns. The current five-year contracts negotiated in 2004 now are national contracts following SBC Communications Inc.'s acquisition of AT&T Corp. in 2006, its name change to AT&T Inc., and its acquisition of BellSouth Corp. in 2007.
Fairpoint Classic Bargaining
News from the Communications Workers of Americaand theInternational Brotherhood of Electrical WorkersPress AdvisoryFor immediate release: June 16, 2009For more info contact: Rand Wilson (617) 809-0799
100 jobs at risk…FairPoint challenged to fulfill job commitmentsPortland -- When FairPoint Communications bought Verizon's landlines in Northern New England, it made commitments in all three states to improve service, add jobs and increase access to high speed internet. During the "cutover" period, both unions allowed the company increased flexibility to help it staff operations. That flexibility included FairPoint temporarily using a subcontractor to outsource about 60 positions to Canada to help the Portland, Maine team with wholesale provisioning for its larger customers. But now that the cutover is complete, that work is supposed to return to the Portland office where management had promised to complete the additional staffing. Last week, FairPoint management reported that it intended to continue to outsource the 60 jobs to Canada. To add insult to injury, management says that as of July 31, it intends to permanently outsource an additional 40 Service Rep jobs from Portland to the same vendor in Canada!Similarly, FairPoint has taken Collections Department jobs promised for Littleton, NH and South Burlington, VT and given them to out-of-the-region subcontractors. "Both IBEW and CWA have worked cooperatively with management to help FairPoint get federal stimulus money," said Don Trementozzi, President of CWA Local 1400. "But now FairPoint is violating our contracts and not living up to the promises it made in all three states.""Even as FairPoint boasts about adding jobs in Maine, it's actually taking away the good jobs that we already have," said Pete McLaughlin, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2327. "This is our work. The revenue is generated in New England and the work should be done in New England," McLaughlin added. "In this economy, these telephone jobs are more important than ever. Hiring local people will ensure a higher quality standard of service. We can't afford to miss any opportunity for economic growth."Diane Winton, President of IBEW Local 2327, says union activists won't let the company "off the hook" for the promises it has made. "If FairPoint doesn't change its mind on these jobs, there may be a lot more than just fireworks at the company-sponsored 'Employee Appreciation' night set for the Seadogs vs. Erie baseball game on Thursday night." The baseball game is scheduled for 6:00 PM on Thursday June 18 at Hadlock Field, 271 Park Avenue in Portland.
100 jobs at risk…FairPoint challenged to fulfill job commitmentsPortland -- When FairPoint Communications bought Verizon's landlines in Northern New England, it made commitments in all three states to improve service, add jobs and increase access to high speed internet. During the "cutover" period, both unions allowed the company increased flexibility to help it staff operations. That flexibility included FairPoint temporarily using a subcontractor to outsource about 60 positions to Canada to help the Portland, Maine team with wholesale provisioning for its larger customers. But now that the cutover is complete, that work is supposed to return to the Portland office where management had promised to complete the additional staffing. Last week, FairPoint management reported that it intended to continue to outsource the 60 jobs to Canada. To add insult to injury, management says that as of July 31, it intends to permanently outsource an additional 40 Service Rep jobs from Portland to the same vendor in Canada!Similarly, FairPoint has taken Collections Department jobs promised for Littleton, NH and South Burlington, VT and given them to out-of-the-region subcontractors. "Both IBEW and CWA have worked cooperatively with management to help FairPoint get federal stimulus money," said Don Trementozzi, President of CWA Local 1400. "But now FairPoint is violating our contracts and not living up to the promises it made in all three states.""Even as FairPoint boasts about adding jobs in Maine, it's actually taking away the good jobs that we already have," said Pete McLaughlin, Business Manager of IBEW Local 2327. "This is our work. The revenue is generated in New England and the work should be done in New England," McLaughlin added. "In this economy, these telephone jobs are more important than ever. Hiring local people will ensure a higher quality standard of service. We can't afford to miss any opportunity for economic growth."Diane Winton, President of IBEW Local 2327, says union activists won't let the company "off the hook" for the promises it has made. "If FairPoint doesn't change its mind on these jobs, there may be a lot more than just fireworks at the company-sponsored 'Employee Appreciation' night set for the Seadogs vs. Erie baseball game on Thursday night." The baseball game is scheduled for 6:00 PM on Thursday June 18 at Hadlock Field, 271 Park Avenue in Portland.
Jobs With Justice Drafts Joint Health Care Reform Letter to Obama with Massachusetts Labor Leaders
Dear President Obama,
We applaud your commitment to enact legislation that will improve health care in the United States. Health care continues to be a critical issue for workers at the bargaining table and -- as the crisis in the auto industry shows -- without a real solution responsible employers lose their competitive edge while employees suffer...
Dear President Obama,
We applaud your commitment to enact legislation that will improve health care in the United States. Health care continues to be a critical issue for workers at the bargaining table and -- as the crisis in the auto industry shows -- without a real solution responsible employers lose their competitive edge while employees suffer...
We would like to thank everyone who came to Friday night's location meeting at the Lawrence Elks lodge.
A special thanks to our guests Pete Sikora District-1 NY and his presentation on the Employee Free Choice Act, Eddie Starr and his Officers from the IBEW who allowed us to join his RESPECT campaign, Rand Wilson from the AFL-CIO, Ralph Montefusco, CWA Organizer/Mobilizer, Dave Reardon and Steve Smith IBEW 2222, Jen Doe from Jobs with Justice and last, but certainly not least Steve Early, former CWA National and Local 1400 Staff Rep.We were all reminded that, while, labor is in a better position as a result of the recent elections of Obama and a Democratic Senate, we must unite and push for there to be a real change against corporate greed and company intimidation in organizing. We can make this change happen through grass roots membership participation. Again thank you for all your continued support.
Don TrementozziKeri Evinson Karen CussonSumner Delaney
A special thanks to our guests Pete Sikora District-1 NY and his presentation on the Employee Free Choice Act, Eddie Starr and his Officers from the IBEW who allowed us to join his RESPECT campaign, Rand Wilson from the AFL-CIO, Ralph Montefusco, CWA Organizer/Mobilizer, Dave Reardon and Steve Smith IBEW 2222, Jen Doe from Jobs with Justice and last, but certainly not least Steve Early, former CWA National and Local 1400 Staff Rep.We were all reminded that, while, labor is in a better position as a result of the recent elections of Obama and a Democratic Senate, we must unite and push for there to be a real change against corporate greed and company intimidation in organizing. We can make this change happen through grass roots membership participation. Again thank you for all your continued support.
Don TrementozziKeri Evinson Karen CussonSumner Delaney
Hello CWA Local 1400 Verizon Members!
As you may have just found out, the Company just announced that Andover, as of April 5, 2009, will be going back to one schedule. You will still remain under the three separate queues for the determination of overtime until such time as everyone is trained in Fios which is estimated to be completed by end the end of June. This training will put us back to one schedule platform again and depending on your office you will see schedule allocations change, hopefully for the better, and we will keep you informed. Finally progress is being made but this is just the beginning.....
Springfield you will be the first demand office to be trained in Fios starting next week, followed by Worcester and then, finally the rest of Andover... This FIOS training schedule was determined by the company, because of the availabity of workforce development for whatever reasons. The goal is to be universal service reps again, trained to handle every call. This allows less transfers more efficiencies and reduces the queues and we can get our closed time back on a consistent basis.
We have been telling the company that there is workplace pressure which is causing a severe morale problem. One of the reasons the company agreed to one schedule is to boost morale and to move in a positive Union / Management relationship. We have agreed to rekindle the NEAT committee in an effort to address work place concerns/ problems.
Our Corporate profit sharing check is 749.00 this year. You will be receiving this in your 03/05/09 payroll check.
If you know someone who or did not receive this e-mail directly from an officer please send your e-mail address to clocal1400@aol.com. Please include your name and office location.
Thanks for your continued support and stay united. Have a great weekend.
Don TrementozziKeri EvinsonKaren CussonSumner Delaney
As you may have just found out, the Company just announced that Andover, as of April 5, 2009, will be going back to one schedule. You will still remain under the three separate queues for the determination of overtime until such time as everyone is trained in Fios which is estimated to be completed by end the end of June. This training will put us back to one schedule platform again and depending on your office you will see schedule allocations change, hopefully for the better, and we will keep you informed. Finally progress is being made but this is just the beginning.....
Springfield you will be the first demand office to be trained in Fios starting next week, followed by Worcester and then, finally the rest of Andover... This FIOS training schedule was determined by the company, because of the availabity of workforce development for whatever reasons. The goal is to be universal service reps again, trained to handle every call. This allows less transfers more efficiencies and reduces the queues and we can get our closed time back on a consistent basis.
We have been telling the company that there is workplace pressure which is causing a severe morale problem. One of the reasons the company agreed to one schedule is to boost morale and to move in a positive Union / Management relationship. We have agreed to rekindle the NEAT committee in an effort to address work place concerns/ problems.
Our Corporate profit sharing check is 749.00 this year. You will be receiving this in your 03/05/09 payroll check.
If you know someone who or did not receive this e-mail directly from an officer please send your e-mail address to clocal1400@aol.com. Please include your name and office location.
Thanks for your continued support and stay united. Have a great weekend.
Don TrementozziKeri EvinsonKaren CussonSumner Delaney
Jobs With Justice annual dinner
Attention Fairpoint NNE MembersNorthern New England Work & Family*Enrollment Notice*
The enrollment (re-enrollment) period for the Dependent Care Reimbursement Fund (DCRF) starts April 1, 2009. Everyone who wishes to enroll in, or continue to be part of the DCRF program MUST submit their paperwork....Read more here.
Special Delivery for Verizon ShareholdersVerizon's annual meeting will be held in Louisville, KY, on May 7. Proxies should be arriving in the mail or by e-mail shortly. Once again, the CWA and IBEW local unions will be collecting completed proxies to deliver to Verizon's top management.
Below are voting recommendations from CWA Local 1400.Item 1. Election of DirectorsCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE AGAINST ALLItem 2. Ratify Appointment of Independent Registered Public AccountantsCWA Local 1400 has NO RECOMMENDATIONItem 3. Advisory Vote Related to Executive CompensationCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE AGAINST ITEM 3Item 4. Approval of Verizon's Long-Term Incentive PlanCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE AGAINST ITEM 4Item 5. Approval of Verizon's Short-Term Incentive PlanCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE AGAINST ITEM 5Item 6. Stock OptionsCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE FOR ITEM 6Item 7. Special Shareholder MeetingsCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE FOR ITEM 7Item 8. Separate the Roles of Board Chairman and CEOCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE FOR ITEM 8Item 9. Cumulative Voting for Election of the Board of DirectorsCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE FOR ITEM 9Item 10. Golden Coffin AgreementsCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE FOR ITEM 10
Please return your completed proxy in the original envelope directly to your steward or executive board member by Thursday, April 30Note: You cannot vote online if you want the union to deliver your proxy. You may print out the online proxy and then treat it like a regular paper proxy.CWA & IBEW will be collecting and delivering voted proxies to the company. CWA & IBEW are not asking for discretionary authority to vote proxies on behalf of their members. Please make sure you vote and sign your proxy.
CWA Local 1400155 West Road, Portsmouth, NHwww.cwalocal1400.org
The enrollment (re-enrollment) period for the Dependent Care Reimbursement Fund (DCRF) starts April 1, 2009. Everyone who wishes to enroll in, or continue to be part of the DCRF program MUST submit their paperwork....Read more here.
Special Delivery for Verizon ShareholdersVerizon's annual meeting will be held in Louisville, KY, on May 7. Proxies should be arriving in the mail or by e-mail shortly. Once again, the CWA and IBEW local unions will be collecting completed proxies to deliver to Verizon's top management.
Below are voting recommendations from CWA Local 1400.Item 1. Election of DirectorsCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE AGAINST ALLItem 2. Ratify Appointment of Independent Registered Public AccountantsCWA Local 1400 has NO RECOMMENDATIONItem 3. Advisory Vote Related to Executive CompensationCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE AGAINST ITEM 3Item 4. Approval of Verizon's Long-Term Incentive PlanCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE AGAINST ITEM 4Item 5. Approval of Verizon's Short-Term Incentive PlanCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE AGAINST ITEM 5Item 6. Stock OptionsCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE FOR ITEM 6Item 7. Special Shareholder MeetingsCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE FOR ITEM 7Item 8. Separate the Roles of Board Chairman and CEOCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE FOR ITEM 8Item 9. Cumulative Voting for Election of the Board of DirectorsCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE FOR ITEM 9Item 10. Golden Coffin AgreementsCWA Local 1400 recommends a VOTE FOR ITEM 10
Please return your completed proxy in the original envelope directly to your steward or executive board member by Thursday, April 30Note: You cannot vote online if you want the union to deliver your proxy. You may print out the online proxy and then treat it like a regular paper proxy.CWA & IBEW will be collecting and delivering voted proxies to the company. CWA & IBEW are not asking for discretionary authority to vote proxies on behalf of their members. Please make sure you vote and sign your proxy.
CWA Local 1400155 West Road, Portsmouth, NHwww.cwalocal1400.org
Organizers protest at Rite Aid storeBy Sabrina Cardin, Staff writerThe Daily News of NewburyportApril 04, 2009 12:15 am AMESBURY -- Half a dozen local protesters gathered at Rite Aid yesterday in support of California workers currently fighting to join a union and their larger cause, the Employee Free Choice Act. Protesters believe the Rite Aid in Lancaster, Calif., with its violations and attempts to halt a union, shows the importance of the Employee Free Choice Act. The legislation would amend the National Labor Relations Act. Current law has favored secret ballot elections that are monitored by the federal government; the new law would favor a system where a union is formed if it can get at least 50 percent of employees to sign a petition. Unions have argued the current system allows employers to pressure employees to vote against unionizing. Critics of the proposed law say it will allow unions to strongarm and intimidate employees, and effectively take away the secret ballot system. "These are rights we have had in the United States since the 1930s, and what happened at Rite Aid is wrong; they only got a slap on the wrist," said Sumner Delaney, the lead organizer. "I'm here in part for Jobs with Justice, and they are powerful. If we wanted 500 people here, we could have them here, but that's not what we are about," Delaney said. Upon his arrival, Delaney stated his purpose to the Rite Aid manager in Amesbury. After 5 minutes, the manager instructed protesters to leave the property or he would call the police. Amesbury police Sgt. William Sholtz appeared on the scene but did not ask them to leave. Delaney handed the officer a flier to which he replied, "You are fine, don't disrupt anything and you are OK." Protesters gathered in the rain and handed out leaflets providing information on Rite Aid and the act from 4 to 6 p.m. at seven Rite Aid chains across Massachusetts. Amesbury's leafletting campaign is one in a long line of protests that have been taking place across the United States for months. In February, demonstrators gathered at 14 separate Rite Aid locations in Pennsylvania, Oregon, Washington and California. "We want people to know the public is working against these national companies, and we need to be heard," Delaney said. "It's about developing the middle class, which will save the country." Delaney first heard about the act and Rite Aid's current controversy with workers wanting to join a union in Southern California through Jobs with Justice. Jobs with Justice is a national campaign to win justice in workplaces and work toward economic and social justice. It has helped lead protests throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Delaney chose Amesbury's Rite Aid branch because his parents live in town and he has a familiarity with the area. "It's a blue-collar town, and people need to be aware and know how important it is to vote for the Employee Free Choice Act,' he said. Both of Delaney's parents handed out leaflets in support of the protest. Although out in support of the Employee Free Choice Act and California Rite Aid employees' rights, Delaney said he is not against Rite Aid. "We aren't here to protest Rite Aide; we want people to still go to their stores, but we want people to know that they need to sign this union contract," he said.
Swearing In of Officers - January, 2009
CWA Local 1400 educates customers at an AT&T store
Obama Creates Working Families Task Force, Issues Executive Orders Covering ContractorsPresident Obama Jan. 30 officially launched a White House task force aimed at raising the living standards of middle class working families and issued three labor-friendly executive orders regarding the rights of workers employed by federal contractors...Click here for the full story.
Press ReleaseFor immediate release: January 28, 2009For more info contact: Ralph Montefusco (802) 862-4085, cell (802) 598-5613 orRand Wilson (617) 809-0799 FairPoint challenged to make good on it's job commitments at Vermont hearing Montpelier - When FairPoint Communications bought Verizon's landlines in Northern New England, it made commitments in all three states to improve service, add jobs and increase access to high speed internet.Last week it was reported that FairPoint would outsource 40 to 50 Collections Department jobs they promised to create in South Burlington to a vendor in Mississippi. "We are outraged," said Don Trementozzi, President of CWA Local 1400 at a joint hearing of the House Commerce and Senate Economic Development Committees on January 28. "Even before the cutover to FairPoint is complete, the company is reneging on its promises."The hearing was co-chaired by State Senator Vincent Illuzzi (R- Newport) and State Rep. Warren Kitzmiller, (D- Montpelier).Also testifying at the hearing were Pam Porell, VP for Government Affairs, FairPoint Communications, and David O'Brien, Chris Campbell and Ron Behrns from the Vermont Dept. of Public Service. "This is our work. The revenue is generated in New England and the work should be done in New England," added Trementozzi. "These telephone jobs are important opportunities for all of us and hiring local people will ensure a higher quality standard of service. We can't afford to miss any opportunity for economic growth."
Click here for coverage in the Boston GlobeClick here for coverage on CBS channel 3 WCAX
Hello Brothers and Sisters,
On Tuesday, January 13th, CWA Dist-1 Staff Rep Paul Bouchard and I were invited to a meeting in Portland by John Polley, FairPoint VP of Labor Relations. At this meeting, FairPoint Treasury Vice-President Tom Griffin, who is based in Charlotte, N. C., gave us an overview of FairPoint's financial position. He then tried to justify their financial situation as the reason to pull back the 17 CWA awarded job bids for the new collection group. They planned on filling about 35-40 collection jobs in So Burlington and at least another 13 collection jobs in Littleton NH. They informed us they would outsource these jobs to Mississippi. We asked FP how they could justify the violation to our contract and how they could renege on their commitments to the 2 legislative bodies in NH and VT as well as the commitment to the communities? They said they had already decided and will be outsourcing this work.
I can tell you since Tuesday, we have received the full backing of our National Union Dist-1 VP Chris Shelton to support our fight against FairPoint's decision to outsource our work. We have asked the Vermont Legislature to bring FairPoint back into the oversight committee hearings. A red flag should being going off with the PUC's in all 3 states. It appears cutover hasn't even begun and FairPoint has started to back out of the 600 jobs they committed to hiring in all 3 states. What's next?
I am asking all of you to join together to fight Fairpoint and their unacceptable decision to outsource our jobs. Together with the CWA National Union we have already begun implementing our action plan. The VT Stewards Army will be updated and will inform all of you. Stay United,
Don TrementozziPresidentCWA Local 1400
Hello Brothers and Sisters,
On Tuesday, January 13th, CWA Dist-1 Staff Rep Paul Bouchard and I were invited to a meeting in Portland by John Polley, FairPoint VP of Labor Relations. At this meeting, FairPoint Treasury Vice-President Tom Griffin, who is based in Charlotte, N. C., gave us an overview of FairPoint's financial position. He then tried to justify their financial situation as the reason to pull back the 17 CWA awarded job bids for the new collection group. They planned on filling about 35-40 collection jobs in So Burlington and at least another 13 collection jobs in Littleton NH. They informed us they would outsource these jobs to Mississippi. We asked FP how they could justify the violation to our contract and how they could renege on their commitments to the 2 legislative bodies in NH and VT as well as the commitment to the communities? They said they had already decided and will be outsourcing this work.
I can tell you since Tuesday, we have received the full backing of our National Union Dist-1 VP Chris Shelton to support our fight against FairPoint's decision to outsource our work. We have asked the Vermont Legislature to bring FairPoint back into the oversight committee hearings. A red flag should being going off with the PUC's in all 3 states. It appears cutover hasn't even begun and FairPoint has started to back out of the 600 jobs they committed to hiring in all 3 states. What's next?
I am asking all of you to join together to fight Fairpoint and their unacceptable decision to outsource our jobs. Together with the CWA National Union we have already begun implementing our action plan. The VT Stewards Army will be updated and will inform all of you. Stay United,
Don TrementozziPresidentCWA Local 1400
Officer training February 2009
Marlboro Chief Steward Election Results are in...Congratulations Maryellen McConville!
Maryellen McConville 37Cy Anderlionis 36
Washington, D.C. – Negotiations resumed earlier today between the Communications Workers of America and AT&T Mobility, but CWA said that union and company bargainers remain far apart on several important issues. No further talks are scheduled at this time.
CWA is prepared to bargain at any time. However, AT&T Mobility needs to come to the bargaining table ready to discuss and resolve some very complicated issues, and so far, the company has shown no willingness to do so, said CWA Executive Vice President Annie Hill.
The contract covering AT&T Mobility workers is set to expire at midnight. CWA sought a longer extension so that the bargainers could resolve some very complex issues, but AT&T Mobility has refused.
"CWA is disappointed that Mobility management seems unwilling to hammer out an agreement at the bargaining table. Instead, the company has used scare tactics to frighten employees, forcing CWA to file charges against AT&T Mobility with the National Labor Relations Board," Hill said.
In these negotiations, CWA represents 20,000 Mobility workers in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic, the mid-West, Mountain States and the West Coast.
PORTSMOUTH — Police say someone put glue in the locks at a local union office on West Road and at least one of the newly elected heads of the union suspects it was not a case of random vandalism...Click here for the full story.
Marlboro BurlingtonMary Ellen McConville 37 Darlene StoneCy Anderlonis 36 Manchester Felicia AugevichAndover FiosStorm Gage Worcester Mary Francis Comstock 21 Andover Blue Kerri Quinlan 18Aimee Bettencourt 36Karen Furman 24 Bangor Lynann Bates 29Andover Red Bob Mutty 48John Krol 53 Jennifer Cusick 40 AT&T Brunswick Brian MurrayTauntonFios 1Karen Hayes 51Jean Picardi 13
Fios 2Lisa Senay (unopposed)
SRC TauntonDianne Cunningham 31Carol Bruno 20
Maryellen McConville 37Cy Anderlionis 36
Washington, D.C. – Negotiations resumed earlier today between the Communications Workers of America and AT&T Mobility, but CWA said that union and company bargainers remain far apart on several important issues. No further talks are scheduled at this time.
CWA is prepared to bargain at any time. However, AT&T Mobility needs to come to the bargaining table ready to discuss and resolve some very complicated issues, and so far, the company has shown no willingness to do so, said CWA Executive Vice President Annie Hill.
The contract covering AT&T Mobility workers is set to expire at midnight. CWA sought a longer extension so that the bargainers could resolve some very complex issues, but AT&T Mobility has refused.
"CWA is disappointed that Mobility management seems unwilling to hammer out an agreement at the bargaining table. Instead, the company has used scare tactics to frighten employees, forcing CWA to file charges against AT&T Mobility with the National Labor Relations Board," Hill said.
In these negotiations, CWA represents 20,000 Mobility workers in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic, the mid-West, Mountain States and the West Coast.
PORTSMOUTH — Police say someone put glue in the locks at a local union office on West Road and at least one of the newly elected heads of the union suspects it was not a case of random vandalism...Click here for the full story.
Marlboro BurlingtonMary Ellen McConville 37 Darlene StoneCy Anderlonis 36 Manchester Felicia AugevichAndover FiosStorm Gage Worcester Mary Francis Comstock 21 Andover Blue Kerri Quinlan 18Aimee Bettencourt 36Karen Furman 24 Bangor Lynann Bates 29Andover Red Bob Mutty 48John Krol 53 Jennifer Cusick 40 AT&T Brunswick Brian MurrayTauntonFios 1Karen Hayes 51Jean Picardi 13
Fios 2Lisa Senay (unopposed)
SRC TauntonDianne Cunningham 31Carol Bruno 20