Union Talks with Bell Atlantic Continue Past Deadline

Late progress last night in negotiations between the Communications Workers of America and Bell Atlantic/Verizon prompted bargainers to keep working past the strike deadline at 12:01 this morning in an effort to reach a settlement.

Both sides said they are committed to reaching an accord as soon as possible.

CWA said that company negotiators began presenting a comprehensive proposal at about 11:45 last night that for the first time addressed the union's major concerns.

We're working hard and hope to reach a settlement today and have all of our members back on the job with the kind of contract that recognizes their role in building the success of Bell Atlantic/Verizon and Verizon Wireless," said CWA President Morton Bahr.