Verizon Strike 2011



Table of Contents

Abstract3

Introduction1

History of Work Stoppages/Strike1

Strike August , 7th 20113

Management Initial Views Over the Strike4

Initial Demands and Issues5

Unfair Labor Practices by Union and Verizon6

Impact of Strike7

Issues and Demands Agreed by Management7

Issues or Concerns after the Work Stoppage8

Conclusion9

References10

Abstract

After the peaceful 11 years of non-strike year the Verizon Communication Inc. found itself dealing with another strike on August 7, 2011. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and Communication Workers of America (CWA), called the strike which involved around 45,000 workers against the company Verizon Communication Inc. The company held the position that, workers need to understand the situation of the market and contribute towards the competitiveness of the firm and the employees should be willing to accept pay for performance, and sharing contribution in health care as the non-union members have already been doing. However, the demands of the union were to take the decision back regarding the flexible contract of employment, cutting their salaries, increasing labor hours, fewer, sick days, larger contribution towards health coverage, pension freeze for current workers, and freedom to outsource as much as it wants. The union and Verizon Communication Inc. both charged the other for unfair labor practices. The impact of strike was felt on both sides of the table. After two weeks the labor union suddenly called off the strike without any clear resolution of the matters upon which the strike was called. The members of the unions who were protesting showed mixed views and concerns over the move the union leaders. The issues were largely unsettled between the union members and the company when the strike was called off. This seemed to be a desperate response signaling that both parties felt the impact of strike. However, the union leaders have given the indication that, provided the company tries to impose such actions again, then it will retaliate with appropriate actions including strikes.

Verizon Strike 2011

Introduction

The relations of any company with its employees and its unions are crucial for smooth functioning of the business. However, due to conflict of interest in the affairs of business often raises such situations where unions call strike. The Verizon Communication Inc. maintains separate division of wire line and wireless divisions. The business of wire line is gradually becoming obsolete. The growing competition is making the company's management cut on the benefits or at least limit them with more commitment to work from its employees. However, the workers were not willing to accept this change easily and showed their concerns about management's decision in August 2011 with strike. This paper presents the history of strikes in Verizon communication Inc. and discusses the management vs. Union view of that strike. Also, it presents the ultimate end of strike by the union and what made the union leaders to end it.

History of Work Stoppages/Strike

The relation of any company with its employees and their unions are crucial for smooth functioning of the business. The relations of union and Verizon Inc. have been peaceful for over 11 ...