July 26 was the beginning of an important round of negotiations intended to result in a revised collective agreement between the Telecommunications Workers Union (TWU) and Telus.

  The futures of both depend on the outcome of the process.  We expect respectful and timely consideration to be given to each party’s positions throughout the process.

There have been encouraging signs that this round of negotiations will be different than the previous round.  We have met and agreed on our bargaining procedures and ground rules document that lays the groundwork for respectful dialog.

The two negotiation committees participated together in preventive mediation through Federal Mediation and Conciliation Services.  We believe that these positive developments are small but important steps in moving from a confrontational, intensely adversarial and negative relationship to a more co-operative, respectful and productive relationship.

TWU National President and chief spokesperson, George Doubt, said in his opening statement, “I began my career in the industry in the early 70s when the relationship between the Union and the employer was confrontational, particularly around bargaining.  I remember the pattern of work stoppages that were the price of renewing agreements.  I also remember the change in the relationship in the 80s.  There were 25 years of co-operation, joint committee work, some joint efforts (broadcast license) and many agreements renewed and improved without work stoppages.  He continued, “We have an opportunity, over the next few months, to begin to repair that damaged relationship or to intensify the discord.  Some small positive steps have been made.  The TWU is approaching these negotiations with guarded optimism for an improvement.”

The TWU Bargaining Committee has a clear mandate from our members.  Our proposals which (consistent with the agreed to procedures and ground rules) tabled on July 26 were developed from resolutions adopted from TWU locals across Canada.  We received almost 700 of those resolutions.  Our Committee reviewed and weighed each one, and made recommendations to a three-day national convention.  That convention endorsed the package we presented.  These decisions were not lightly arrived at and every member of the Committee agreed and supported them.

We have struggled to keep our package as small as possible.  We have kept our proposals focused on our members’ priorities.  The package represents the most important and pressing issues that our members require us to address this round.

Our members want progress on some basic and important points.  They expect to see their work, themselves, and their Union respected and valued by the corporation.  They expect to be fairly rewarded for their work.  They demand increased equality of working conditions, rights and opportunities.  They must have improved ability to control their work life balance in areas of work scheduling, vacation scheduling, and other work arrangements.

Our proposals were designed to provide that progress.

Telus also tabled their 2010 proposals as per the agreed upon procedures and ground rules on July 26, and meetings continued July 28.  TWU bargaining committee is reviewing those Telus proposals and will meet again face-to-face on August 17.

The Committee will continue to update you as information becomes available.