New ntl: recognition deal

The updated BECTU recognition agreement has been signed on the day the ntl: and Telewest merger is finally announced.

The new deal with ntl: was negotiated as a result of the successful ballot of ntl: COBI Field Operations staff during August which saw a 9:1 vote in favour of continued BECTU recognition.

The union will now be seeking to build on the ballot result by increasing BECTU membership in the recognised areas and also encouraging more members to volunteer to be union representatives.

A number of ntl: staff in the recognised areas have already put themselves forward for training as Shop Stewards and Health and Safety reps since the ballot.

The announcement of the ntl: Telewest merger has long been expected.

BECTU Officials have been in contact with ntl: and were briefed on the merger announcement.

The union will be looking to ensure that any savings from the merger will not be at the cost of members' jobs.