Tape update Sunday  5pm President Cheryl Ahern

It's official! The Regional and National bargaining teams voted unanimously in favor to a tentative 3 year contract settlement.
After months of mobilizing and bargaining and 10 straight exhausting weeks of intense negotiations, our united bargaining committees have reached an agreement in principle with management pending document review.
Throughout this process, we focused on ensuring our place in the work of the future. Our critical goals also included health care for active and retired workers, retirement security and a fair wage increase. The involvement and mobilization of tens of thousands of our members made a huge difference in these negotiations. All of us together showed our strength, our commitment, our determination to get the best possible agreement.
We're proud to have represented the 65,000 union members at Verizon in these negotiations on behalf of Chris Shelton, Ron Collins, Ed Mooney, George Welker, Steve Holland Sandy Kmetyck, John Miller, Miles Calvey.
Hard work from both the Regional and National paid off, here is a summary of the tentative agreement:

Wages:
eff. 8/3/2008 3.25%
8/2/2009 3.50%
8/1/2020 3.75

COLA:
eff. 8/1/2010 one half the increase in the CPI-W in excess of 3.75% between May 09 and May 10

Corporate Profit Sharing: $700 minimum paid in March of each year

Pension Band Increases:
eff. 10/1/08 3.25%
10/1/09 3.50%
10/1/10 3.75%

Pension Lump Sum Cash-out
pension distribution options remain in contract with no change and available at any time for the length of the contract

Verizon Business jobs
and much more, details to follow
 

Tape updated 08-06-2008

Bargaining Report
Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2008 President Cheryl Ahern speaking

Yesterday, the parties continued marathon bargaining throughout the day, ending at 11 p.m. last night. Today, negotiations have resumed.

Progress is being made. Is it slow.

We have presented Verizon with a unified and united front and strong position on all our critical issues. Now, we’re working through some of the most difficult issues in the areas of jobs and employment security for members at our company. Our strength in bargaining has been reinforced by the highly visible - and widely reported to the company - mobilization that continues. Verizon hasn’t come around yet, but we’re pressing the company on all our critical issues, especially when it comes to jobs.

This bargaining involves serious issues - health care, retirement security, and especially jobs. These negotiations are all about ensuring that our members will be full participants in the future of this company and in this industry, not walled off and excluded from the jobs and future that we have made possible.

There are more than 60 people involved in the bargaining process from our two unions. In addition to the elected bargaining committees, there are experts on health care, pensions, economics, communications and legal issues. Needless to say, the company has many, many more people on its side.

Verizon’s rapid shift from copper to fiber - and beyond in the future - makes it clear that we must negotiate a contract that secures the jobs of the future and opportunities for our members, addresses subcontracting, expands bargaining rights for workers and provides for employment security.

We will not be bypassed by the company that we built and helped make so successful. If our efforts to secure a fair agreement that provides for jobs today and for the future are not fully successful at the bargaining table now, we will secure it on the picket line when necessary. There’s no doubt about that. Our goal is to win on these issues and we will.
Tell Verizon that you are happy that they are building the network but we want to be part of it.
We are the network!
Stand strong and stand united

Tape updated 08-05-2008

Today is Tues Aug 5 10:43pm President Cheryl Ahern speaking.

Negotiations continued today between CWA/IBEW 2213, IBEW New England and the Company in Rye, New York and in Washington DC. The Bargaining Committee in Washington is still meeting at this hour. The pace of negotiations is still slow. The issue is still jobs and making sure that we protect the jobs of today and the jobs of the future. The clock remains stopped at 11:59 pm August 2nd.

The Regional bargaining Committee is scheduled to resume bargaining tomorrow morning.

Stay in touch with your Local for the latest updated information

Tape updated 08-04-2008

Today is Mon August 4, 2008 president Cheryl Ahern speaking

The Bargaining Committee continues to meet and make significant progress at the table. We stopped the clock because the threat of a strike has been enough to engage the company in real bargaining. We are ready to strike at any time. We will use the strike tactic when it helps us achieve our goal. We are ready to walk and the company knows it.  The current contract remains in effect. The company must get the message that we are the Network and we want the jobs that goes with that network.

All tours will continue as schedule. All contract provisions are still in force. We will continue to mobilize in the workplace. 

The bargaining committee will not allow the company to rush us through the process, to pressure us  to bring back a mediocre contract, we will stay here as long as it takes to get it right and get our members what they deserve and nothing less.
United we stand Divided we beg

Tape updated 08-02-2008  11:00pm

Tape updated 08-02-2008  9:30pm

Tape updated 08-01-2008

Friday August 1, 2008 President Cheryl Ahern speaking.
The Union and the company continue to meet in Washington and NY. No significant movement on any table.
Code orange
Increase in revenue, decrease # of jobs. I don't think so.
No contract, No work.
CWA 1103 President Joseph A. Barca Jr hosted rally along with 1108 and all area locals here in Rye NY, thank you for your support to our Bargaining committee.
Contract expires midnight tomorrow.

If the company doesn't wake up and smell the jobs, we will be on strike

Tape updated 07-31-2008

Today is Thursday, July 31, 2008
CWA/IBEW Bargaining Update

Negotiations continued today between CWA/IBEW 2213, IBEW New England and the Company in Rye, New York.  Little or no progress was made in today’s discussions on jobs.  With a little more than two days to go one has to wonder if the Company will get serious in time to get an agreement before the contract expires on Saturday night.   

Everyone should remember to bring home all of their personal items when leaving work for the weekend as we don’t know when we will be returning. 

Keep up the mobilization efforts.  Our activities today included rallies, marches and practice picketing and participation was overwhelming.  This is the kind of message we need to continue sending to management.       

Stay in touch with your Local coordinators for the latest updated information. 

Count Down  - 2 Days Left
United we stand, divided we beg

Tape updated 07-30-2008

Today is Wednesday July 30, 2008 President Cheryl Ahern speaking

3 Days left - get the word to Management that to avoid a strike they need to come to the table and address our issues.
 

Negotiations continued today between CWA/IBEW 2213, IBEW New England and the Company in Rye, New York.  Today’s sessions included lengthy discussions on network and COEI work.  There was no progress made.  The Company again today did not respond to the Unions counter proposal on healthcare.  With a little more than 72 hours remaining little time remains to reach agreement.   

It is extremely important that we keep the pressure mounting.  Mobilization activities continue with several rallies scheduled around the footprint.  We will not agree to a contract that does not protect our work, our benefits, our retirement security and our standard of living.    

Stay in touch with your Local coordinators for the latest information on mobilization activities and distribution of picket signs.  The bargaining committee appreciates all the support received from the membership to date and urges every member to stand ready to do whatever is necessary to achieve our goals and get the contract our members deserve.  

Ty to all stewards, chief stewards + DVP's who attended the conf call tonight in preparation for a strike.

Attend rally tomorrow night 185 franklin st boston 5p
We will do whatever it takes to get a contract,
United we stand, divided we beg
Countdown continues -----

Code Yellow - 3 Days Left

Tape updated 07-29-2008

Today is Tuesday July 29, 2008 President Cheryl Ahern speaking.

CWA/IBEW 2213 and IBEW New England bargaining teams continued to meet with the Company today in Rye, New York.  The bargaining teams still await responses from the Company on the Unions counter proposal on healthcare.  Virtually no progress was made today regarding the jobs issue.  With four days left until contract expiration on Saturday the Company continues to show no interest in our demands. 

It is extremely important that the Company know that the two sides are still very far apart and there is no solution in sight.  As the clock continues to tick we need to make every effort to get our message out loud and clear.  We will not agree to a contract that does not protect our work, our benefits, our retirement security and our standard of living.    

Mobilization continues throughout the entire Verizon North/South footprint with thousands of members participating in various activities every day.  Stay in touch with your Local coordinators for the latest information on mobilization activities and distribution of picket signs which will be arriving at the Locals by Thursday.

The “13,340 Reasons to Strike” Flyer will be distributed in the workplace. . Management must know that our issues are STRIKE issues.

Thursday is a major Mobilization Day.

4 Days and Counting Down

Just another reminder to have everyone pack their personal belongings and fill any prescriptions that they need regularly.
 

Tape updated 07-28-2008

CWA/IBEW 2213 and IBEW New England bargaining teams continued negotiations with Verizon today in Rye, New York. We thought that after Saturday’s Rally the Company would get our loud and clear message regarding the Union’s issues. It appears they still haven’t heard us as no progress was made during today’s Sub-committee meetings. At this late date all major issues have yet to be resolved—including jobs, benefits, retirement security and wages.

Our contracts expire on Saturday, August 2nd. Strike preparation continues on both the National and Local Union levels. Members should be contacting their Locals about picketing and strike duty assignments if they have not already done so. Be ready to do whatever it takes to protect our jobs, our benefits, our retirement security and our standard of living.
 

Tape updated 07-24-2008

CWA/IBEW Bargaining Update for Thursday, July 24, 2008
President Cheryl Ahern speaking.

Prior to the resumption of talks this morning the bargaining committees participated in the District wide mobilization conference call. During the call CWA chief negotiator, Dennis Trainor gave an update citing the lack of progress on many Union issues. He stated that the Company still doesn’t appear to be taking the issues raised by CWA and IBEW seriously. Later in the day work and jobs were the subjects discussed in two separate subcommittees dealing with plant work and TRG warehouse functions formally performed in Southboro, Ma.

Every member should plan to attend the rally in New York City on Saturday to show support for your bargaining committee.  It is important that we let the Company know that our demands are serious and that time is running out.  

The three CWA District Vice Presidents and IBEW officials continued to meet with high level Verizon management in Washington D.C. today to push the Unions agenda.  Meetings at both locations are scheduled to continue tomorrow. 

Members riding the buses to the New York City rally will be asked to fill out cards to join the Million Member Mobilization campaign in support of efforts to pass the Employee Free Choice Act.  Once the Free Choice Act is law future bargaining committees will have the benefit of increased numbers of members in the Labor movement which will strengthen our voice at the bargaining table.  

The Andover separate schedule trial in Andvover will continue while discussions took place between the Union and the Company to come to a resolve that will be in the best interest of the membership #1 the Union and the company to continue to have Massachusetts future work for the future of our jobs.
A lot of time and effort went into putting parameters in place that protects seniority and those most junior in the building of Andvover working nights and Saturdays. Now that demand will be opened nights and Satudays the parameters in place will continue to be monitored to be sure that the most junior are on nights and Saturdays

Tape updated 07-22-2008

Today is Tues July 22

CWA/IBEW Bargaining Update for Tuesday, July 22, 2008

The bargaining Committees met in sub-committee today and continued to focus on jobs.  As the Unions continued to stress the importance of this issue, specific discussions concerning TRG COEI work took place with Operating management joining the Company’s bargaining team to address the Union’s questions and concerns.  Further sub-committee meetings are scheduled for tomorrow.

As we get closer to the expiration of the contract Locals will be scheduling Picket assignments.  Keep in touch with your Local Mobilization coordinators for information on all mobilization activities.  Attendance numbers for this Saturday’s rally in New York City continue to grow. CWA President Larry Cohen and the Vice Presidents from Districts 2 and 13 will be joining District 1, Vice President Chris Shelton at the rally.  If you have not already signed up, please see your Local mobilization coordinator to do so. 

Nothing is stronger than the power unity

Tape updated 07-21-2008

Today is Mon, July 21, 2008 Pres Cheryl Ahern speaking.

CWA/IBEW Bargaining Update for Monday, July 21, 2008

CWA, IBEW 2213 and IBEW New England resumed bargaining with Verizon today in Rye, New York. The two sides continued their discussions concerning jobs of the future and current work from Fridays session..  The Unions stressed the importance of this matter being addressed properly in order to reach an overall agreement.  The Company has not yet responded on this matter.

The CWA Vice Presidents, Chris Shelton, District 1, Ron Collins, District 2 and Ed Mooney, District 13 along with IBEW officials, Myles Calvey (New England) and John Miller (New Jersey) are meeting in Washington D.C. with high level Verizon management to insure that progress is being made at the Regional tables.

CWA reported today that more than 91% of its Verizon members voted to authorize a strike in balloting conducted over the last week among over 50,000 Verizon members in the Northeast.

Mobilization activities continue across Districts One, Two and Thirteen as final preparations are being made for the rally planned for New York City this Saturday, July 26th.  Check with your Local Union for details and staging areas for this important activity.

CWA bus will be meeting at Dascombe road Saturday morning for rally 140 West Rd NYC seats are still available pls contact the local to sign up.
Strike assignments should b completed in all locs any questions Please contact the local.
United we stand divided we fall.
 

Tape updated 07-17-2008

Today is Thurs, july 17,2008 President Cheryl Ahern speaking

Bargaining Update for Wednesday, July 16, 2008

The CWA/IBEW 2213 and IBEW New England bargaining committees resumed bargaining in Rye, New York with Verizon.  Medical Benefits, Prescription Drugs and Jobs were the issues discussed today.  The Company had many questions on the Unions proposal on Medical and Prescriptions and told us that they were planning a counter to our proposal. The Union stressed that our top priority is our current work as well as jobs of the future and the session ended with the company looking to continue the discussions on jobs at tomorrow sessions.

The results of the strike authorization vote will be announced once all Locals have conducted their vote. The CWA Secretary Treasurers office is conducting online Member Relief and Defense Fund training for all Locals. All Locals should check the dates of this training and make sure that they participate. Plans are being finalized for a multi CWA District and Union rally on Saturday, July 26th in New York City. Contract your Local for details.
CWA/IBEW Bargaining Update  for Thursday, July 17, 2008

Bargaining continued in Rye, New York between CWA/IBEW 2213, IBEW New England and Verizon. The morning session included a discussion on current work and jobs. The Union’s questioned the Company representatives on work specific to the TRG unit and requested additional information. During the afternoon and evening session the Company presented a counter proposal on Medical Benefits. Bargaining has recessed until Friday morning when the issue of future and current jobs will be addressed.

Mobilization activities continue across District One, Two and Thirteen. Plans are being finalized for the New York City rally on July 26th. Check with your Local Union for details on this important activity. The result of the strike authorization vote will be announced later this week.

Tape updated 07-15-2008

Bargaining Update for Tuesday, July 15, 2008

The CWA/IBEW 2213 and IBEW New England bargaining committees spend the morning
preparing a counter proposal on Medical and Prescription Drug Benefits. In the
afternoon the Union presented their proposal to the Company. Negotiations were
recessed for the day. It is expected the Company will respond when bargaining
resumes tomorrow morning.

The results of the strike authorization vote will be announced later this week. 
The CWA Secretary Treasurers office is conducting online Member Relief and
Defense Fund training for all Locals. All Locals should check the dates of this
training and make sure that they participate.


Notification has gone out to TP + Acting managers to step down effective Monday. We had an incident in SRC were management was asking to be trained so those TP'd stepped down immediately. I want to thank the SRC TP'd for their unselfish act of solidarity.
There is strength in numbers

Tape updated 07-14-2008

Today is Monday July 14^th 2008 10:55pm, President Cheryl Ahern speaking. With less than three weeks left until contract expiration, the bargaining team still has a lot of work ahead of us. Talks continue with Verizon. Thursday the CWA regional bargaining committee and IBEW 2213 met with the company to discuss mediation proposals. On Friday the sub committees met, and met with the company. Today’s discussion focused on more questions relating to mediation. The regional bargaining team for CWA, IBEW 2213 and IBEW NE will meet tomorrow with the company. We have a rally planned for July 26^th in NY. The bus will meet at 6:00am and travel to 140 West St. corporate headquarters. The rally will be from 1:00pm-3:00pm. This rally was originally planned for July 19^th. It has been confirmed and changed to July 26th. Joe Cody has been working very hard to get the word out there. Please sign up. To sign up see Joe Cody, Darlene Stone, your local Mobilizers  or call the local office. We also have a rally planned for Boston MA at 185 Franklin St for July 31^st.

Tape updated 07-07-2008

Today is Mon 7/7/08 11pm Pres Cheryl Ahern speaking.
I am pleased 2 report the
results from the strike vote administered last Thursday.  thus far CWA 1400 has an overwhelming majority in favor
502 Yes & 30 No
marlb
Spfd
Andv
Taunt
Worc
We are awaiting results from Bos ucc
Ty to all those who voted to have a say in the outcome of their future for jobs with better wages and benefits for all.
CWA/IBEW Bargaining Update for Wednesday, July 2, 2008

   The CWA/IBEW 2213 and the IBEW New England negotiating committees met with the Company in Rye, New York.  Discussions centered on the health care and prescription drug proposals.  The Committees worked on these issues separately.
CWA Bargaining Update for Monday, July 7, 2008


Negotiations resumed between CWA/IBEW 2213 Regional Bargaining Committees in Rye, New York. Today’s discussion focused on the Company’s proposal on the arbitration and mediation process.

Tomorrow the Bargaining Committee has scheduled a meeting with the CWA Local Presidents. The purpose of this meeting is to update the Presidents on the current state of negotiations as well as have them provide valuable input on the issues of Jobs, the jobs we do today, the jobs of the future and contracting of work.

Tape updated 06-30-2008

Today is Monday June 30th 2008. CWA Local 1400, President Cheryl Ahern speaking.
The CWA and IBEW bargaining update for Monday June 30th 2008: The CWA and IBEW 2213 and the IBEW New England negotiating committees met with the company this afternoon in Rye, NY after a week of recess. The company presented their response to the union’s June 16th comprehensive proposal. The company’s proposal was completely unacceptable to the unions. The meeting recessed, and the committees will meet first thing tomorrow morning.

Tape updated 06-06-2008

Today is Friday 06/06/2008 pres Cheryl Ahern speaking

 The CWA bargaining update for Thursday 06/05/2008

CWA and IBEW 2213 regional bargaining committee and the IBEW New England team resumed negotiations with Verizon  in Rye, New York. Our bargaining team has previously questioned the company on details of their presentation on the medical and prescription drug benefits for NY and NE and there were a number of questions that were outstanding. The company responded to most of those questions. Their answers resulted in more questions which need to be answered. There are many questions concerning the prescription drug plan that need to be addressed. The union caucused late in the day to review the new information that was provided.

 CWA bargaining update for today 6/6

the CWA and IBEW 2213 regional bargaining team and the IBEW NE team met with Verizon in Rye, New York. The unions requested that the company bring a rep from Blue Cross Blue Shield to discuss the medical expense plan and how they coordinate benefits with Medicare. During today’s session, the Blue Cross Blue Shield reps gave a presentation and the bargaining committee had many questions. The reps also provided examples of how they process the claims. The company needed to review some of the questions and will get back to the committee. Bargaining has adjourned for the day and is scheduled to resume Monday 6/9 2008.

On Monday your bargaining committee will continue discussions concerning jobs and future work. Your bargaining committee has made it clear that the jobs of the future in Verizon belong to our bargaining unit and negotiations will focus on these issues on Monday.

Tape updated 06-05-2008

Today is Thurs June 5th president Cheryl Ahern speaking.
The CWA/IBEW 2213 Regional Bargaining met in caucus in the morning Wed June 4th. The afternoon session met with the Company on the grievance and arbitration process. Bargaining resumes this morning.
This is regional bargaining. 
There is no local bargaing going on at this time.
Bargaining strenth comes from a Unified membership

Tape updated 06-04-2008

CWA Bargaining Update for Wednesday, June 4, 2008

The CWA/IBEW 2213 Regional Bargaining met in caucus this morning. The afternoon session with the Company centered on the grievance and arbitration process. Bargaining has recessed for the day and will resume tomorrow morning.

Tape updated 06-03-2008

CWA Bargaining Update for Tuesday, June 3, 2008

The CWA/IBEW 2213 Regional Bargaining Committee met today with Verizon in Rye, New York to continue negotiations. The Union raised critical issues that must be addressed if an agreement is going to be reached. The parties discussed the present state of labor relations and ways to improve on them. Later in the day bargaining unit work was discussed. The Union’s committee will be meeting tomorrow morning in caucus prior to resuming full negotiations with the Company

Tape updated 06-02-2008

CWA Bargaining Update for Monday, June 2, 2008

The CWA/IBEW 2213 Regional Bargaining Committee and the IBEW New England team resumed negotiations with Verizon today in Rye, New York. The Company provided much of the information which the two Unions requested last week. The Company gave specific examples as to the impact of their proposal on our members related to Medical and Prescription Drug benefits. The Union caucused late this afternoon to review the information received today

Bargaining has adjourned for the day and is scheduled to resume on tomorrow, June 3rd.

Tape updated 05-30-2008

Today is Friday, May 30, 2008
CWA Bargaining Update for Thursday, May 29, 2008

In negotiations conducted today between CWA, IBEW and Verizon the Company responded to some of the questions raised by the Unions earlier this week with regards to their presentation on health care. There are still a number of questions yet to be answered.  The Company’s proposed changes to the FLMA certification process were the subject of this afternoon’s session.

Bargaining is scheduled to resume on Friday morning when it is expected that the Company will make a formal proposal on health care.

During today’s bargaining session Verizon presented their proposal on healthcare including the Medical and Prescription drug plans. The CWA/IBEW 2213 and IBEW New England bargaining team members questioned the Company on all aspects of their proposal. Additionally, the Unions made several requests for additional information.

Bargaining has adjourned for the day and is scheduled to resume on Monday, June 2nd at which time the Company is expected to provide additional information.
Thank you for calling

Tape updated 05-28-2008

Today is wed may 28, 2008 President Cheryl Ahern speaking

CWA Bargaining Update for Wednesday, May 28, 2008

The CWA/IBEW 2213 Regional Bargaining committee along with the IBEW New England team resumed negotiations with Verizon this morning in Rye, New York. Dennis Trainor, CWA Chief Negotiator gave the Union’s opening statement in which he outlined the issues that the Union believes the Company must address if these talks are to result in a contract agreement. After Trainor completed his opening, IBEW Chair Myles Calvey, spoke on behalf of his members in the New England area.

The remainder of the morning session centered around discussions concerning jobs and future work.  During the afternoon the parties turned their attention to the issues and problems created by the Company pertaining to the grievance and arbitration procedure. This included a discussion on the Company’s reliance on outside legal counsel who impedes, prolongs and increases costs associated with the processes.

Bargaining has adjourned for the day. It will resume tomorrow morning Thursday, May 29, 2008.

Tape updated 05-27-2008

Today is Tuesday May 27, 2008 920pm President Cheryl Ahern speaking

CWA Bargaining Update for Tuesday, May 27, 2008

The CWA/IBEW 2213 Regional Bargaining Committee and the IBEW New England team met jointly today with Verizon in Rye, New York.  The Company’s chairperson made an opening statement expressing the Company’s concern on the rising cost of health care benefits. A representative from the Company’s Human Resources department gave a presentation on the Medical and Prescription Drug Benefits for New York and New England. Our bargaining team questioned the Company on the details of the presentation. No formal proposals were exchanged today. Talks will continue tomorrow morning.

The SRC 17's have declined temp upgrade to do 93 work until the 8 service reps forced into the CSSC are brought back and made whole.
How can the company think it can force out 8 service reps permanently
"Reasigning" into the CSSC and backfill rep work with wt 17's. This is a violation of the ITP/UTP and circumventing need for SR's. This is an awesome show of solidarity. I know that the 8 reps must appreciate and are touched that the 17's have shown the ulitimate sacrifice after being declared surplus. In unity if we stand together to do the right thing, then right will come from it.
Stand strong
Stand united!

Tape updated 05-15-2008

Today is Thursday, May 15, 2008  President Cheryl Ahern speaking


I am proud to announce newly org unit located in So China + Winthrop ME. Please welcome 73 brothers and sisters from classic Fairpoint to the cwa local 1400 family through card check this morning at the aaa in boston. This is a great group of employees that take pride in their work as service reps for the classic Fairpoint Company who remained nuetral during this process. Thanks to all those that helped out in the campain. John Putnam, Jeanne Picardi with help from Michelle Dunphy Ann Musinden, help and support from District 1.

CWA District 1, 2, and 13 as well as the IBEW have agreed to once again enter into “Early” Negotiations with Verizon. CWA President Larry Cohen and District One Vice President Chris Shelton met with Verizon CEO Ivan Seidenberg on Friday May 9, 2008, to discuss the possibility of early negotiations. Since that meeting, we have received agreements with the CWA 1,2,13 and IBEW Bargaining teams involved and are making arrangements to begin negotiations. We have a tentative start date of Tuesday May 27, 2008. We will update you as soon as we have more information involving these negotiations.

Tape updated 04-15-2008

Tape updated 03-31-2008

Today is Monday March 31, 2008 744am President Cheryl Ahern speaking.

NH and VT PUC followed suite w/  ME. They scolded Fairpoint but are allowing  the sale to still go through despite the significant change in the bond issue. NH is the only one that acually did anything besides take them out to the woodshed. VZ in NH agreed to change the line loss agreement from if line loss exceeds 10% in the 1st and 2nd year to pay $15m both years to $15m guarenteed the 1st year no matter what and $15m the 2nd year if line loss exceeds 7 1/2%.

Tape updated 03-29-2008

Today is Saturday March 29, 2008, 3:19pm President Cheryl Ahern speaking.

The Maine PUC held an emergency hearing and deliberation yesterday on the Fairpoint Communications takeover of Verizon's land-line. The issue is that FP sold bonds to finance the deal at interest rates that were much higher than expected.
The commissioners decided that the $2.35 billion deal can still go through but the New Hampshire and Vermont regulators announced that they will hold emergency meetings Sunday to reconsider the sale.
All three states must agree to the deal for it to take effect on Monday as planned. 

Tape updated 03-22-2008

Today is Saturday March 22, 2008 730am. I am happy and please to announce that the CWA and Faipoint reached  a tentative agreement Thurs morning March 20th 230am and the IBEW this morning 430am. The result of our ongoing discussions and  negotiations last week was a true extension of the contract significant upgrades.
A summary as follows:
- Term of contract, 5 years beginning  April 1st, 2008 through August 3,2013 
- 3% raises for every year of the agreement
- Cola will remain as is, in effect for the last 2yrs of agreement
- Pension band increases per year for every year of the agreement
    08-3%
    09-one band level
    alternating as such
  - Lump sum will remain with 2 closed windows. Aug 3, 2008 through Dec 31, 2008 and July 1, 2012 through Dec 31, 2012. The existing methodology will continue to be used for the life of the agreement and in the event a surplus declaration during a period when lumps sums are suspended will be lifted.
- No premium sharing for Medical including retirees
- CPS will continue
-  Co will continue to funding  Work and Family
- CWA New England will have it's own HCC position
- Improvements in transfer of jobs language from .7 to .0
- We now have successor ship language
- CWA will get an additional pension band increase of 2  levels begging at the end of the contract to match NY and IBEW New England.

In Unity,
Cheryl

Tape updated 03-19-2008

Today is Wednesday March 19th 2008 President Cheryl Ahern speaking.  Discussions of local issues with Fairpoint concluded at 1:30 am this morning.  Talks went very well to ensure that we maintain our current level of benefits and local language.  We hope to release details sometime early next week.

An agreement with Verizon was reached in ensuring that all temps with 1+ years ncs will be made permanent including the northern states and we were able to come to an agreement of effective date of 3/30/08 ipo 4/1/08.   We will also be taking on 10 surplused operators from Greenfield Mass as service reps in Worcester and Springfield.  Our membership continues to grow and unite.

Great job to those members who got up early before work and took time out on your lunch  to carried signs demanding that Verizon honor our contract. If Verizon hopes to reach an early agreement on a new contract, it must respect the existing one.
Stand strong, stand united,
In unity, we are one
Cheryl   

Tape updated 03-10-2008

Today is Monday March 10th CWA Local 1400 President Cheryl Ahern speaking. 

We are no longer asking the TP and Acting's to step down as of Saturday March 8th. The Executive Board met with the company as of Friday March 7th. A tentative agreement was reached to make the Temps with 1+ service permanent.  We want to thank all of you for standing united to achieve this victory. Especially the TP's and Acting members that stepped down from their positions. By standing united we were able to work out a fair agreement. The northern state Temps must be cared for while they are Verizon employees and the company agreed to pursue getting all permanent on April 1st, 2008.  Talks with Fairpoint are scheduled for March 18th for local issues. The first day with new employer will be 4/1/08.
Thank you for calling.

Tape updated 03-02-2008

Today is Sunday march 2nd 11:16 pm President Cheryl Ahern speaking. On behalf of CWA L 1400 executive board, we are asking that all tps and acting step down immediately. The mistreatment of our members must end.  Mistreatment by Verizon.  Pressure to sell, forced to work mandatory ot for  months on end . Taking away our  vacation allotments,  closed time,  violating our bid process with “ reassignment” to name a few., we have an enormous amount of temporary employees on the books  who deserve to be made permanent. Stand strong, stand united and  stop the mistreatment

Tape updated 02-26-2008

Today is Tuesday February 26th 3pm President Cheryl Ahern speaking.  Last night the NH PUC approved the sale from Verizon to Fairpoint.  NH was the last of the utilities to decide. Of the many conditions, Fairpoint must establish  a prefunded trust for retiree benefits and assurances of land line loss from Verizon if line loss falls below 10%, Verizon must pay $15 million per year for 2 years. The order also states that labor interveners played a key part in the outcome.  This could not have been done by itself. As president, I am happy and proud of all of you who actively participated in this working toward a common goal of saving jobs and benefits. 

Tape updated 02-16-2008

Today is Saturday February 16th 2008 President Cheryl Ahern speaking .
The Vermont Public Service Board approved the sale of Verizon Land lines to Fairpoint Communications with substantially less conditions than in Maine. Vermont settled for $6.7 million in dual pole removal and $25 million for a Perfomance Enhancement Plan both from Verizon. NH Public Service is still reviewing the case.  Exploratory talks with Fairpoint continue this week to discuss transitional issues on the extension of benefits of our contract . Talks will continue next week. Thanks for calling 

Tape updated 02-10-2008

Today is Saturday Feb 10, 2008 CWA Local 1400 President Cheryl Ahern speaking.
"
LL Sale update:
Regulators in NH + VT are reviewing the case.
Two days of hearings took place in NH last week before the Utility Commission who must still decide whether to accept or reject the deal. The Public advocate continues to question the shaky deal.
In VT, CWA/IBEW research analyst Randy Barber answered questions before the Economic Development Committee chaired by Senator Vince Illuzzi. Illuzzi and other lawmakers raised concerns with the Public Service Board.
Fairpoint will not have the financial resources to meet the additional commitments it made and Verizon's contributions are woefully inadequate. See more Barber testimony at www.stopthesalenow.org.
CWA National President Larry Cohen attended the Workers Center Conference at UVM in Burlington VT to speak against the sale. Stating that other alternatives should be considered such as an independent phone co as opposed to a company that is debt laden from the starting gate.
The CWA and IBEW continue exploratory discussion for a contract extension to retain our current level of benefits in the event a sale is approved. We discussed topics such as wages, pensions, medical,401k to name a few.
Thank you for calling.

Tape updated 01-13-2008

Today is Sunday Jan 13th  10:16p President Cheryl Ahern speaking.

The CWA and IBEW met again Fri Jan 11th to discuss early bargaining for a possible contract extension in the event a sale goes through.  Talks will continue next week.

A motion was file by the Maine OPA. The OPA thinks the VT stipulation  could cost FP an additional 70-80 million dollars w/o funds from VZ. Funds to be used for Maine now going towards the VT stip. The question still remains,  what about NH?

The CWA1400 executive board meets this Wed 1/16th. Your link the meeting is through your District Vice President. Please communicate with your DVP and remember, communication  flows both ways.

In Solidarity,
Cheryl

Tape Updated 01/10/2008

Today is Thurs Jan 10th President Cheryl Ahern speaking.
The CWA and IBEW met jointly today with Fairpoint Commununications to begin a possible early contract extension. The parties will meet again friday to continue this exploratory process.  These discussions are being held so that in the event the sale is approved our memberships will be protected

Tape Updated 12/13/2007

Today is Thursday December 13^th 2007   10pm   President Cheryl Ahern speaking.

CWA & IBEW commend the Maine regulators for refusing to be rushed into a Fairpoint sale.  The Public Utilities Commission set a hearing date for December 20^th to address the proposed settlement. We hope that if the commission decides to consider the proposal, the proposal stipulation, that it will hold evidentiary hearings to analyze the full implication. The northern states current and future economic well being depends on the financial health of the provider. And these stipulations fall far short from the recommendations that were made by the PUC’s hearing examiner. We are also in agreement with the examiner that the deal should be rejected.

Tape Updated 12/11/2007

CWA/IBEW BARGAINING TAPE MESSAGE

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

 At 1PM today District One Vice President Chris Shelton notified Verizon Labor Relations that CWA was formally breaking off early negotiations. There was just no possibility of going further based on the onerous medical proposal Verizon put forward. The CWA Bargaining Teams have an interest in bargaining a fair and equitable contract and we are always available to listen to reasonable proposals but we could never agree to the retrogressive demand Verizon put forth.

Tape Updated 11/29/2007

Today is Thurs 11/29 10:50pm President Cheryl Ahern speaking
Barganing update. The Union and the company met yesterday Wed 11/28. The company had a rep from Hewitt attempt to explain the cost savings they would reap from their medical proposal. The company was unable to answer all of our questions and in fact additional ones arose. The union committee held a caucus in the afternoon during which proposals to be presented to the company were reviewed. Negotiations resumed this morning 11/29 in Rye NY. While waiting for the company to provide the balance of our requested information, the Union presented some of our proposals.  This process continued into the afternoon sessions until the parties recessed to the evening. The union and the company will resume negotiations tomorrow morning Fri 11/30/07.
Liz Dailey continues to partake training in NH resulting in the loss of our jobs. Unlike sister Daphne Plummer who we can give sincere thanks to for returning to her job in Andover.

Tape Updated 11/26/2007

Tape update
Today is Mon 11/26/07 1154pm President Cheryl Ahern speaking.  The Union+the Company were scheduled to meet today at the Ryetown Hilton but the Company was not prepared to answer any of our questions regarding their proposal. The company exchanged some limited data which we had requested but unfortunately this info was insufficient. The unions have made several data requests + the company is attempting to answer those requests and also provide experts to explain this information. The parties are scheduled to meet tomorrow.
The Verizon/Fairpoint deal is not a done deal.  The Maine hearing examiners just released their report. They agree with many of the points made by the Public Advocate + the CWA+IBEW. Reject the deal. As a wholethis transaction subjects the ratepayers and shareholders to substantial risks + harms that are not outwieghed by any of the potential benefits of the transaction.  If the PUC disagrees with the overall assessment then conditions must apply see CWA1400 website for more details.
In Unity,
Cheryl

Tape Updated 11/21/2007 

Tape message 11/21
Hello brothers+sisters, today is wed 11/21/07.  The Union+the Company met Mon 11/19/07 at the Ryetown Hilton for the first day of early contract negotiations.  The Company discussed their Health Care proposal + the Union gave the company a list of issues we intend to address. 
The Union + the Company met again 11/20/07 at the Ryetown Hilton for the second day of early contract negotiations. The Union made several data requests.  No proposals or responses were presented.  The meeting recessed and is scheduled to reconvene at the Ryetown Hilton on 11/26.
CSSC vaca selections should be ready early next week. I am working with each office to ensure that the numbers are correct and we have enough allotments. Relief is on its way mandatory OT since the collapse capable + served we made 96% service level Mon + Tue 80% today making way for Fios campaign calls back. New classes will be going on line. In addition to bids in Taunton + Andover, More new hires slated for 65 Jan, 45 Feb in Springfield,Worcester+Andover.  Bids went out today 59 CWA service reps in Bangor. 
In Unity,
Cheryl

Tape Updated 11/20/2007

CWA/IBEW BARGAINING TAPE MESSAGE
November 20, 2007


The Union and the Company met today at the Ryetown Hilton for the second day of early contract negotiations. The Unions made several data requests. No proposals or responses were presented.

The meeting recessed and is scheduled to reconvene at the Ryetown Hilton on November 26th.

Tape Updated 11/19/2007

 The Union and the Company met today at the Ryetown Hilton for the first day of early contract negotiations.  The Company discussed their Health Care proposal and the Union gave the Company a list of issues we intend to address.  Both sides are reviewing the documents and are scheduled to meet again on Tuesday at 10 am.  Updates will be made as the talks continue.

Tape Updated 11/09/2007

"The Regional Bargaining Committee met with the company today and received a presentation regarding benefits. The committee had many questions for the company in regard to the presentation and had several requests for additional information.  The committee will meet next Wednesday, November 14, 2007 @ Pine Street to discuss our position for early bargaining.

Early bargaining is scheduled to begin November 19th with an additional meeting scheduled for November 20, 2007. We will recess for the Thanksgiving Holiday and reconvene on November 26, 2007".

Tape Updated 10/31/2007

Tape Updated 10/03/2007

Thank you for calling CWA Local 1400.  It is October 3, 2007 Kerri Quinlan speaking. 

The General Membership Meeting will be held October 20, 2007, at 12:00 pm.  The membership meeting will take place at the Local 1400 Union Hall located at 155 West Road, Portsmouth, NH. 

The fight to Stop the Sale continues members from all over New England have attended hearings, rallies and participated in phone banking to voice concerns over the proposed sale.  A wheelbarrow full of postcards from Mainers protesting the sale was delivered to Gov. John Baldacci's office coinciding with the Maine PUC hearings.  Before the sale can be completed it must be approved by all three states and the FCC. 

The deadline for entries for the 2007 Melissa Morin $500.00 scholarship is October 31, 2007.  Details are posted on union boards.

Thank you for calling CWA Local 1400.

Tape update 05-14-2006

Maine

email or call your legistors and ask them to support  bill #LD1866.  The work session for this bill has been moved up to tomorrow ipo Wed.  We need to get this bill on the floor. It is an Act to revise Maines utility reorganization laws. 

$32M Verizon Maine Rate Cut Recommendation Could Affect FairPoint Deal.

The Maine Office of Public Advocate said the recommended revenue reduction and service-quality penalties could significantly affect the Maine economies of Verizon’s $2.7 billion FairPoint sale, but a lot would depend on whether the PUC accepted the recommendation, how it implemented any revenue reduction, and how it addressed the service-quality issue.

NH

Next pub hearing This Tues May 15^th. Exeter. Lincoln St Gym. 

5/22/05 Newport Opera House

5/24/07 Littleton H.S.

Bring families, friends and neighbors. This your chance to be heard or show up to support those who are speaking on your behalf fighting for your job securityl.

Reminder- CWA/IBEW Stop-the-Sale rally Saturday May 19. also bring families friends and neighbors.  930a motorcycle rally starting at the Lee traffic circle.  Call brother Rolland Jakes 603 440-8474 for information about the ride.

VT

Friday night May 11^th Vt legislatures finished work on our bill

Senator Allusie put an attachment on telecom bill, requires that

Any buyer must measure up to Verizon in regards to finance, technology and  experience.

While concerns are valid legislators feel that it should go thru PSB process and not thru legislation.

The PSB asked questions and listened to testimony, unions, lawyers, FP, VZ and

Industry experts. It ended up that the language from bill will be sent in the form of a letter to the PSB, signed by the Speaker of the House, President of the Senate, Chair of the Senate Economic Development Committee and Chair of the House Commerce Committee.