Can anyone else see through FairPoint’s ploy of saying it is at an impasse with contract negotiations? They have been against the unionized workers since day one. Claiming bankruptcy was a convenient way to get rid of debt, and now they want to conveniently get rid of knowledgeable, dedicated employees in order to outsource work to low-wage out of state contractors, among other unreasonable demands. This would have a substantial impact on our communities, which depend on FairPoint’s experienced employees to build and maintain facilities such as landlines, cell towers, DSL and even 911 systems.

These unionized workers are not just FairPoint employees, though. They are our family members, our neighbors and people who are known throughout their communities. In an era where technology dominates, we can still feel comfortable approaching them to ask for help with static on a line or options for connecting a new business. Yes, FairPoint has a point when it states that the telecommunications industry is changing and they need to change with it. However, that does not mean bullying your employees into submission.

FairPoint’s corporate communications director stated that “the company would prefer negotiated agreements, but feels the offer being implemented … is fair to its hard-working and valued workforce. It is regrettable that the issues could not be resolved through bargaining.” Unfortunately, that is not accurate. How can teams negotiate when only one side is willing to meet and offer options and solutions? The contract expired at the beginning of August, yet the company has only agreed to two meetings since then ”“ and not with counter proposals or a willingness to work this situation out.

There is no meaningful prospect for a negotiated settlement because that is exactly how FairPoint wants it, so it can impose its will on its employees.

Tammy Cloutier, Kennebunk