Kuster Statement on Fairpoint Communications Labor Negotiations

Statement

Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the following statement today regarding the ongoing contract dispute between FairPoint Communications and two unions representing its workers, the Communications Workers of America (CWA) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW):

"I have met with FairPoint workers and with FairPoint management, and for months my staff and I have been in contact with both. I know that negotiations between labor and management can be contentious, and I recognize that both sides in this disagreement have distinctly different viewpoints. But we can all agree that workers, employers, and our entire economy benefit from continued, productive dialogue between management and labor. I am therefore disappointed that negotiations have been suspended, and I urge all parties to come together to negotiate a new contract in good faith.

"Working men and women are the backbone of our country, and our economy depends on a strong and secure middle class. I remain hopeful that an agreement will be reached, and I urge all parties to continue working towards a resolution that supports the success of FairPoint, its workers, and its customers here in New Hampshire and across New England."

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