AT&T union members withdraw from mediation

ATLANTA — Thousands of AT&T internet technicians across Georgia are on strike, along with even more workers across the U.S.

Now, union members say they are no longer interested in mediation with AT&T.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The Communications Workers of America union says the company is using mediation to stall negotiations.

“Our bargaining team was optimistic that AT&T’s suggestion that we enter mediation with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) meant that the company was finally ready to bargain in good faith. Unfortunately, that turned out not to be the case. Instead, the company was using the mediation process as another delaying tactic,” said Richard Honeycutt, CWA District 3 Vice President. “We appreciate the mediator’s efforts. Our message to AT&T is: no more excuses. It’s time to get serious about bargaining so we can get back to work serving our customers.”

The union representing the striking workers have accused the communications company of unfair labor practices, as far as abusive practices and pay disparities among their technicians.

Channel 2 Action News received the following statement Tuesday morning after the news of the union withdrawing from mediation.

“The Communications Workers of America (CWA) District 3 has decided it no longer wants to involve a skilled federal mediator to assist in negotiations.

This decision was unexpected, since withdrawing from mediation seems inconsistent with the union’s allegation of unfair labor practices. This also goes against their stated intention to bargain toward a mutually agreeable resolution.

We thank the mediator for their efforts throughout this process. Regardless of whether a neutral third-party is present, progress will not be made without a willingness to compromise.

As we have said from day 1, we are focused on reaching a fair and competitive agreement that benefits our hard-working employees as quickly as possible, and this won’t change. In the meantime, we will remain prepared for all contingencies to ensure our customers receive the excellent service they deserve.”

TRENDING STORIES:

• 2 metro Atlanta suburbs ranked among fastest-growing in the U.S
• Metro Atlanta pediatric dentist found with child pornography videos at his home pleads guilty
• Juror speaks out after 2nd mistrial for Gwinnett father accused in 8-year-old daughter’s death

It’s not the only strike that took place over the Labor Day weekend.

In the hotel industry, thousands of hotel workers nationwide walked off the job site during one of the biggest holiday travel periods of the year.

The walkouts come as contract talks between the hotel chains and the workers’ union stalled. The strikes are targeting three hotel chains: the Marriott, Hilton and Hyatt hotels.

“It is very impressive to see everybody come together to fight for what they need. Anybody who serves you food to cleans your room, to cleans your dishes, parks your car, opens your door,” union organizer Courtney Leonard told ABC News.

A spokesperson for the hotel chains say they remain willing to negotiate. The strikes are expected to last through Wednesday.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

©2024 Cox Media Group