CWA Local 6229

CWA/AT&T Bargaining Report #2

February 25, 2009

Bargaining between the Communications Workers of America and AT&T reconvened this morning.  The Company presented an overview on Healthcare, which basically positions the Company for requesting take backs in this area.  Richard Kneupper, CWA Bargaining Chair quickly responded that the Union has partnered with the Company in the past by finding creative ways to limit Company cost, while at the same time providing good healthcare for our members.  He stated we are willing to do the same during these negotiations.  However, the committee will not accept a sub-standard healthcare package for our members!

Today, CWA was notified by the Company of their intent to temporarily suspend the Motor Vehicle Usage Program across the entire bargaining unit beginning March 27, 2009. 

Since the Company has failed to provide the Union with copies of the pertinent information necessary for bargaining preparation without the Union signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement, the Union was unable to present the Company with any proposals.  After reviewing documents last night on Company premise the Union notified the Company of the information that had been requested, which had not been included.  The Union has never been required to sign any type of agreement in the past.  The Union stated their position, which is that the Company is delaying the bargaining process in placing an undue burden by making this unreasonable request.  We will keep you posted on the outcome of this dispute.

                  UNITED WE BARGAIN…………

                                                                             DIVIDED WE BEG!!!!!!!!!!