MONTREAL – Bell Canada said today it has offered about 5,000 craft and services employees represented by the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada (CEP) “a new longer-term contract that includes wage increases in each year, preserves pension, benefits and job security, and provides a lump sum payment once the agreement is signed,” says a Bell release.
The offer, presented January 31, also includes changes to the previous collective agreement that will “provide the company with greater flexibility to meet changing customer expectations.” That last line usually means the offer allows for cutbacks and increased outsourcing.
"This is a good offer that benefits employees over the term of the contract and helps us meet our number one priority – providing the best possible experience for our customers, seven days a week, 24 hours a day." said Patrick Pichette, president, operations, in the release.
“Bell has been fully committed to reaching a negotiated settlement with its craft and services employees since the start of bargaining last October. In mid-December, the company requested conciliation to help advance the talks, which had become deadlocked. However, despite the presence of a conciliator, talks have not progressed. As a result, Bell has decided to make an offer to its employees and expects that the CEP will give its members the chance to vote on it, and communicate the results, as soon as possible,” reads the release.
“For customers, it remains business as usual. Bell believes that its employees will see the value and benefits associated with the offer, but the company also has contingency plans in place to ensure that quality service is maintained in the unlikely event of a work stoppage.”
The union has yet to publicly respond.
