Picketing/Strike Q and A

1.How will we know if a strike has been called?
The C&T website will be updated regularly as we count down to the contract expiration.  We will also be updating the Local’s recording.  Everyone can call the Local’s recording at 212-925-6652.  The website will also be posted with the information as soon as the Local is informed.   Picketing Captains will also be notified.

2. If we go out on strike, what am I suppose to do?
If a strike is called, you are required to report to picket duty at your normally scheduled tour unless you have already been notified to report at another time.  Many offices have more day tour people that evening so some may be asked to report at 8 AM and some may be asked to report on the second half of the tour at Noon.

3. How many hours are we required to picket?
For the first week of the strike, all members will be required to picket for 5 days and for 4 hours each day.  Most primary pickets will be up 24X7 so we may have to adjust which days you are to report.

4. Can I take home my books from my desk?
Everyone is encouraged to clean out their personal belongings before leaving on the last day prior to the contract expiration.  Personal belongs would include personal notes used to do your job.  Do not take any AT&T Proprietary information home with you.

5. Am I required to turn in my AT&T vehicle?
If the Company has asked for the vehicle prior to the contract expiration on Friday, April 3rd, be prepared to leave your vehicle.  If not, wait until you are asked for it.  If we are on strike, the company may have to make arrangements to collect the vehicle.  This is the same with any other Company tools such as laptop computers, pagers, cell phones, etc.

6. Can the Company ask for my badge?
They can ask for it but we need to then ask if we are being terminated or suspended.  If you are not being terminated or suspended, inquire if we are being locked out.  If they still request your badge, hand it over and call the Local immediately.   We have never been asked to turn in our badges prior to any other contract expiration.

7.  Why do I need to fill out a Strike Certification Form?
In order for you to receive Strike benefits, a Strike Certification Form must be filed with the Local.

8. Why do I need to put my Social Security Number on the Strike Certiication Form?

Payments to strike duty is considered income and will be reported to IRS.

9. What happens if there is no strike and no agreement?
If the bargaining teams decide they are making progress, they can mutually agree to "stop the clock" and continue to negotiate an agreement past the contract expiration date and time.  If this happens, everyone will continue to work under their current contract agreement.  Nothing changes in benefits or working conditions while negotiations continue.  Of course, we continue to mobilze even harder at the workplace without a new agreement.

Most of the contract stays intact however there are some parts that do not.  If you have a grievable issue, you may be able to file a grievance but while we do not have a contract, we do not have arbitration rights.  Therefore, a grievance may timeout.  Remember a grievance can be filed within 60 days of the incident.  Discuss with your NJ or NY Chief Steward if you should file a grievance while we are still bargaining.

OTHER INFORMATION
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