CWA Statement on AT&T/DirecTV FCC Public Interest Filing

Washington, D.C. -- Following is a statement by the Communications Workers of America on the public interest filing on the AT&T-DirecTV merger:

CWA believes that the proposed AT&T/DirecTV merger can provide real benefits to workers and consumers. We are confident that regulators will move forward to ensure that the public interest potential of this merger is realized. 

By combining DirecTV's nationwide video service with AT&T's broadband and wireless service, the merged company can improve broadband speed and services, and make even more content available for millions of customers. AT&T/DirecTV will be a stronger competitor to the cable industry throughout the U.S., another plus for consumers.

The merged company will provide employment opportunities for tens of thousands of employees at both companies.  AT&T respects the right of employees to make their own choice about union representation. 

The industry is constantly transforming itself as wireless, wireline, cable and satellite converge, and as voice data and video increasingly demand expanded high speed networks.  The public interest is served by expanding access to high speed broadband services.   AT&T’s commitment to provide high speed Internet services to 15 million non-urban locations, with at least 2 million of these provided with Gigapower fiber to the premise service, is a positive move toward expanding Internet access and availability to more Americans. 

Contact: Candice Johnson, CWA Communications, cjohnson@cwa-union.org, 202-434-1168