News

For immediate release April 23, 2008

OTTAWA - The 5,000 members of the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada rejected by a 59% majority Bell Canada's latest offer. The results were made yesterday when the votes were counted after a series of union meetings held throughout Québec and Ontario.

"From the start, bargaining has been difficult because Bell is demanding clawbacks from our members," said John Edwards, CEP Administrative Vice-President, Ontario.

The craft and services employees reject the concession demands concerning the extension of the work week, which would go from 37 ½ hours to 40 hours for the full year, a reduction of certain bonuses and the elimination of others, and several other concessions related to work organization (reassignments, travel allowances, call-back, etc.). Bargaining has been going on since last October. Bell Canada had submitted a series of clawback demands in its first offer which was rejected in March by an 88% majority.

In the upcoming days, union officers will examine the various options and consult the Local Bargaining Committees. "Whatever happens, Bell understand that we will not give up gains that we have fought for over more than 30 years," said Mr. Edwards.

CEP represents the 5,000 craft and services employees working for Bell Canada in Ontario and Québec. It also represents the majority of Canadian telecommunications workers, including 35,000 members in this sector.

For more information: John Edwards (905) 678-0800, ext. 237 or (416) 606-2595