LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) -- Local AT&T workers have been on strike for a week, voicing their demands for a fair contract that addresses their needs and concerns.

Employees with the Communication Workers of America Union said they have filed an unfair labor practice against AT&T, citing to reach an agreement for a new contract. According to workers, they said their contracts with the company expired in June.

Tammy Harmon, President of CWA 3406, said while they want an agreement to be reached, she and the rest are ready to get back to work.

"If that's not being done we can't get a fair contract, so this is why we out here in the sun, I'm pretty sure a lot of the members would agree with me, they would love to be out here working and earning money but they can't do that right now," Harmon said.

With no representatives from the company reaching a negotiation with workers just yet, Vice President of CWA 3406 Nick Degueyter said the prolonged strike will not affect employees but it will affect service for loyal customers.

"We on a first-time basis, and we're trying to take care of everybody, and it's really hurting people on the line that we can't go take care of our customers," Degueyter said.

Gerald Boudreaux, Louisiana Senator District 24, joined local workers in support of their demands. He said its important employees are paid fairly.

"As far as operations we want quality service, but to get quality service we have to have quality employees and contract negotiations to make sure that the people we're asking to provide the service, that they're adequately compensated," Boudreaux said.

Lafayette City Council Member, Elroy Broussard, also joined members in the picket line. He said it is important the workers stand up for what they believe in.

"If conditions are better for them, it's better for everybody else. They called on me yesterday to be apart of this. Anything they want me to do, I'm glad to step in to make sure whatever they are asking for it happens," Broussard said.

Local CWA worker say until negotiations are made, they plan to stay on strike.

Latest News