Will BT strike delay next generation broadband rollout

There are concerns that plans to strike by workers at the communications giant BT could result in delays in the rollout of next generation broadband.

It was announced recently that workers at the communications giant BT were planning to strike, with many angered over bonuses that have been paid to managers at the company and a pay rise of just two percent that has been offered to staff members. This would be the first BT strike in twenty three years according to reports, and could have widespread repercussions.

If the strike does go ahead it could seriously affect customers that are with BT, and thousands could be left high and dry without their phone and broadband access. Also, those that do have access could experience problems if something goes wrong and they need assistance and maintenance from the provider.

However, the repercussions could go even further according to one industry official, who claims that a strike by BT workers could actually result in delays to the rollout of next generation broadband, which could affect the whole country. He said: “There are definitely going to be potential issues with maintenance. It’s definitely going to affect day-to-day maintenance and problem resolution. If it turns into a prolonged strike then it could very well affect the roll out of the next-generation broadband.”

A union official said that striking was a last resort, and was being considered because staff members were not being treated fairly in light of the success of the company. He said: “This is about fairness. We don’t mind senior executives getting bonuses, but we want all staff to share in the success of the company. Striking is a last resort and not something to be taken lightly.”

Source – Lakestar Media