BELTSVILLE, Md., June 14, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association supports the proposed AT&T/T-Mobile merger because it will boost our country’s workforce and economy, at a time when both are ailing. Post merger, AT&T has planned to invest an additional $8 billion in private capital to finance infrastructure and network builds, potentially adding up to 96,000 permanent, quality jobs across the country according to a new study from the Economic Policy Institute and the Communications Workers of America. And it will allow the 20,000 employees who already work at T-Mobile to decide for themselves if they wish to choose the rights and respect that come with collective bargaining.

From the beginning, T-Mobile’s foreign corporate parent, Deutsche Telekom, has stymied any and all attempts by workers to gain workplace protection. Meanwhile, AT&T has maintained a stance of neutrality, allowing workers to organize only if they decide it is in their best interests to do so. At a time when too many are demonizing unions, we need more companies like AT&T, who demonstrate a commitment to collaboration between management and labor.

This merger will also benefit consumers, particularly those who live in rural areas and who increasingly depend on connection to wireless broadband to keep up with their urban counterparts. After the transaction, the merged company will be able to provide 4G LTE coverage to more than 97% of the country, including 55 million more Americans who would not otherwise be covered by AT&T’s current LTE deployment plans. Without high-speed internet, it is nearly impossible to improve one’s economic standing or quality of life, a fact which cannot be overstated when considering this merger.

Finally, this deal will go a long way toward closing the “digital divide” that has for too long hampered our economy and held back the American workforce. We currently rank 25th in terms of internet speed, right behind Romania. As we focus on economic recovery, we must realize that it is impossible for students, consumers, workers or businesses to realize the full potential of the internet while lagging so far behind other developed countries. We fully support this merger, and look forward to its approval after the proper regulatory review has been completed.

For over 146 years the OPCMIA has represented and trained plasterers and cement masons for the purpose of protecting and promoting the quality of our industry and the livelihood of our members.

www.opcmia.org

SOURCE Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association