DENVER — Qwest's largest union will seek a short-term contract and forgo raises through 2005 because of the telecommunications company's financial problems.
The Communications Workers of America District 7, which represents 28,000 employees, will seek a two-year contract instead of the standard three-year deal.
"They're going to be profitable by then, and it will be time for them to pay for what we may not be able to get at this point," said John Thompson, union vice president.
The union began bargaining talks with Qwest representatives this month. The current contract, a two-year extension from 2001, expires in August. Thompson said pay raises would be discussed in 2005.
Qwest wouldn't comment on negotiations.
The Denver-based company is the dominant local-phone provider in 14 states. It is struggling with $20 billion in debt and stagnant revenue.