Bargaining Update

Nokia

For two and a half years, CWA members at Nokia have been fighting back against the company's attempt to eliminate the bargaining unit. Their hard work paid off. The bargaining team, using all means at their disposal, filed lawsuits, NLRB charges, grievances, and arbitrations in an effort to preserve the bargaining unit. CWAers ratified a new Effects Agreement and a Collective Bargaining Agreement last week, which includes job offers for all 201 Installers in the unit with third party vendor Goodman.

These agreements extend retiree healthcare through 2027, increase pension bands by 7%, and provide the equivalent of an enhanced severance package with an additional $30,000. The Goodman contract preserves much of the same core language as the current Installation contract and protects bargaining unit work from erosion by subcontractors.

"I would like to acknowledge all of the people who worked hard to make this happen, including the Locals who made themselves available whenever we needed them," said Bargaining Chair Mary Jo Reilly. "I'd also like to acknowledge the CWA bargaining team whose knowledge, intelligence, commitment, and tenacity made them the best bargaining team for the job."

Lisa Bolton, CWA's Vice President of Telecommunications and Technologies said, "When we fight, we win! And we weren't going to give up on our members and their families."