The CWA, IBEW and Avaya met recently to explore the possibility of extending the current collective bargaining agreement. The parties had agreed prior, they would only discuss wages, pensions and Job Security. However, after two days of meetings, it was apparent that Avaya was not going to live up to their agreement. They proposed having our retirees begin paying for their healthcare during the life of the extension at an estimated $165 per month. In addition Avaya made the healthcare proposal a condition of any extension.

As a result of the retrogressive bargaining, the unions rejected the company’s proposals. The current contract expires May 23, 2009 covering approximately 2300 active employees and thousands of retirees.

Based on what Avaya attempted, its’ clear where they want to head in the next round of bargaining. It’s important that our members and retirees understand the challenges before us. CWA and IBEW will begin monthly mobilization activities as we head toward the May deadline.