Qwest Negotiations Covering 20,000 Are Underway

CWA's bargaining team opened negotiations with Qwest Communications in Denver on July 8 for a new agreement covering more than 20,000 workers in 13 states. The current contract expires Aug. 16.

Among the critical issues for CWA members are a fair wage increase, health care security for workers and retirees, keeping quality jobs at Qwest and bringing back outsourced jobs.

At the opening session, Qwest presented a "state of the business" report and indicated that the company was focused on growth and investing in the future. CWA has pointed out that CWA members who provide the quality customer assistance and technical support that customers want give Qwest a real competitive advantage.

CWA members have worked hard over the past several years to help return Qwest to a solid financial footing after the company was financially devastated by former chief executive officer Joseph Nacchio in 2001. Nacchio continues to face criminal and civil prosecution for insider trading and other illegal actions.

Qwest also has joined CWA in efforts to reform national health care policy.