16 December 2015

Media Release

Chorus must invest copper windfall in the future of the network

The announcement of a higher copper price for Chorus is no victory for consumers or workers who will be feeling the pinch this Christmas.

While Chorus’ shareholders will be celebrating the news that the Commerce Commission has approved an increase in the price of copper phone lines, it isn’t good news for customers facing more expensive phone and broadband, or the people who maintain the network and face uncertain futures due to Chorus’ cost-cutting.

“Chorus have been pulling everything they can out of the copper network, forcing contractors to restructure and lay off staff,” says Joe Gallagher, E tū industry coordinator. “We’ve seen people moving overseas to find work thanks to Chorus’ under-investment in maintenance and infrastructure.

“The government has pressured the Commerce Commission to give Chorus a good deal. Now they need to put the pressure back on Chorus to use that windfall to provide better broadband services to New Zealanders, and create jobs for the people who have kept the network running.”

E tū represents 500 workers in telecommunications, including Chorus contractor companies like Transfield and Downer Engineering.

ENDS

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