Jul 19, 1999


The Communications Workers of America is evaluating this new proposed agreement between US WEST and Qwest Communications International Inc.

This new plan is a merger of equals, and one CWA hopes will enable US WEST to restore the quality service customers expect and deserve. CWA is encouraged by Qwest's public statements that it intends to add thousands of frontline jobs as a result of this new initiative.

CWA District 7 Vice President John Thompson said that he will be meeting this week with top US WEST officials to discuss details of the merger agreement and ways the company can move forward that will benefit everyone- workers, the company and the public. As more details become available, CWA will provide additional information on the merger.

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