OPENREACH - SERVICE DELIVERY TRANSFORMATION

THE LATEST!

Events have happened so quickly it is no wonder people may be confused. There are so many rumours and myths around. In this, the first of regular bulletins, we explain the factual situation.

Firstly, let us all be clear, there is no agreement between the CWU and Openreach on the overall Service Delivery Transformation. Nor will there be on key issues such as Attendance Patterns until you - all CWU members in Openreach - have your say in a ballot.

Based on the over-riding aim of preserving jobs throughout Openreach, the CWU Executive negotiated a package of measures that it intended to recommend to members in a ballot. As a result of feedback from many of you that the proposals were unfair and a step too far this approach and the package was rejected by the Union's Annual Conference

We still face serious challenges on the jobs front. With a rising tide of thousands in the RTC and the threat to members in Complex arising from Project Beck, the Union's main aim is to secure a long-term job for every member who wants to stay in Openreach. Be assured that the CWU is pursuing and will continue to explore every avenue to secure that aim. We all need to unite in that quest.

To this end, the CWU's Executive has recommenced negotiations with Openreach to try to deliver a package of change that will be acceptable to you. Based on the over-riding priority of saving jobs, we have not actively opposed the introduction of GPS technology but we are determined to ensure that management adheres strictly to an agreed Code of Practice governing the use of information.

We recognise that new attendances may be required to reduce overtime (and save jobs!) and for new products in digital Britain. CWU members recognise the need to be flexible but that has to be a two way process with Openreach equally recognising and respecting work/life balance.

More bulletins will follow to keep you informed but if you want more detail attend your Branch meeting, or you can read all of the relevant Letters to Branches on the members' area of the Union's website at www.cwu.org.

Ian Cuthbert
CWU Assistant Secretary