Bargaining AT&T 2016

CWA Local 1298  Members in Connecticut began their journey towards a fair and just contract with AT&T.   It was deja vu at he Medway Circle in Meriden as members met to show their support for the bargaining committee as we work together in hopes of a fair agreement. Thank you all for your support!  Photos from this morning click here  AT&T's Bargaining Committee includes Labor Relations, John Andrasek, Director of Labor Relations,  Joe Macken, Associate Direct Labor Relations,  and Susan Evans, Labor Relations Manger.  Their opening remarks recognized a good start for AT&T in 2016, but cautioned that the global financial uncertainties  and the competition in the the industry causes worries in the marketplace. In addition, it appears AT&T CT was mistaken, claiming that attendance needs work here in Connecticut when the average days of attendance were based on 65 employees/ members who were on disability 12/31/2014 and marked for a delayed start with Frontier.  AT&T also stressed the they strive to provide quality healthcare  but their employees pay less than the national average and as far as pensions are concerned, these were established in a different marketplace and that those types of benefits are rare. Staff Representative Tonya Moore's opening remarks spoke to the importance or our members in Connecticut who are critical to the E911 services for the state and the country as well as supporting CPE services for AT&T's largest Global Accounts. She reminded AT&T of their success and profitability with no need for lowering standards of living for it's employees nor diminish their benefits with a stress on pension benefits. "Pensions are a critical concern in this round of bargaining also, as many of our members are nearing the age of retirement eligibility. As this company’s profits continue to rise, our members’ benefits continue to fall." She expressed the desire to continue the ground work that has been laid by the generations before us, and let’s do the right thing to achieve lasting success.  "AT&T, take care of your retirees and take care of our members." President Henderson opening statements spoke to the AT&T profits, and explained that employees can make or break a company and that our members have spent their lives contributing to the success of this company and should be recognized for their contributions.   He added that  their access to benefits has eroded over the years, and  is discouraged every time AT&T feels a need to reduce their numbers in an effort to enhance profits on the backs of their employees. President Henderson  explained that AT&T is a big player that is moving forward as and the AT&T Stadium is a testament to their success and it is time that they share that success. Thank You All For Your Support!  The AT&T Bargaining Committee District 1 Staff Representative -Tonya Moore William Henderson - President Miriam (Mim)  Di Nicholas - Secretary -Treasurer Dave Weidlich  - Vice President Plant 1 Jay Palazzo-  Vice President Plant 2 Chuck Borchert - Business Agent  (sub-committee) John Vaitkus - Chief Steward (Mobilization Committee)