CWA Executive Board Approves Strike Authorization at Qwest

Contact: Al Kogler, CWA District 7, 303-770-2822, and Candice Johnson, CWA Communications, 202-434-1168

Denver – The executive board of the Communications Workers of America approved strike action if a fair contract cannot be reached in negotiations between CWA and Qwest Communications and authorized the union president to set a strike date.

CWA members had voted overwhelmingly – by 93 percent -- to give CWA leaders authorization to call a strike if a fair contract cannot be reached.  

"Negotiations are continuing but it's time for management to get serious at the bargaining table if we're to reach an agreement before contract expiration," said CWA District 7 Vice President Louise Caddell.

The agreement covering 20,000 CWA-represented workers expires effective 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 17.

"The strike authorization vote demonstrates members' solid support for their bargaining team and their strong determination to achieve a fair settlement with Qwest," Caddell said.

CWA members want a fair agreement with Qwest, one that recognizes the substantial sacrifices workers have made to help Qwest move forward. Critical issues include health care and retirement security, quality jobs, and a fair wage increase.

The negotiations cover workers at Qwest operations in 13 states: Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Idaho, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.