AT&T strike looms as contract talks stall

Article Abstract:

A strike against AT&T appears likely as the company remains at odds with the Communications Workers of America and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers over wages and job security. AT&T is in a stronger position to weather a short strike than it was in the past because modern technology eliminates the need for human intervention in 95 percent of long distance calls. In a longer walkout the lack of skilled workers would increase the possibility of customers experiencing service problems if breakdowns occur. The unions are demanding greater freedom to organize workers at companies AT&T acquires, more than the 9 percent wage increase offered by AT&T, and guarantees that the company will retain and retrain workers whose jobs are threatened by technological advances based on seniority. AT&T maintains that it must be able to choose workers to be retained based on skills and will not promise any type of job security.

Electronic computers, Labor organizations, T, Long distance telephone services, Contracts, Labor relations, Negotiations, American Telephone and Telegraph Co., Communications Workers of America, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Long-Distance Telephone Service, Negotiation, Unions, Strike

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Cable TV battling phone companies: technologies vie to control future of communication

Article Abstract:

The cable television industry is in competition with telephone companies for dominance in telecommunications, using their existing cables to set up wireless telephone networks with radio relays. At the same time, telephone companies are asking the US Congress for the right to broadcast television programs and information services over their telephone systems. Cable systems attach to 90 percent of US homes, providing an existing platform for technological expansion into telecommunications. Some cable companies have acquired companies that provide high-speed communications in an effort to move in on telephone company strongholds. Wireless communications, including pocket telephones, pagers, facsimile machines, and hand-held computers, is a technology with tremendous market potential. Telephone companies, meanwhile, are fighting to be freed from restrictions that keep them out of the cable and information fields.

Cable and other pay TV services, Laws, regulations and rules, Internet services, Wireless LANs, Cable television, Telecommunications systems, Customer service, Fiber optics, Telecommunications, Market share, Competition, Government Regulation, Communications Technology, Acquisition, Cable Television/Data Services, Service Merchandising, Wireless Network

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