Four-day strike on at SBC

[CShine]

VAN NUYS -- More than 100,000 union workers at SBC Communications Inc. began a four-day strike Friday, voicing concerns about health care costs and job security after three months of failed contract negotiations.

SBC didn't report any major disruptions in telephone and Internet service, although concerns still persist as to whether delays will surface through the weekend. SBC employees represented by the Communications Workers of America warned that customers should expect delays for new telephone and Internet connections.

"We are the umbilical cord from the customer to the company," said Terri Hughes-Haley, an SBC service representative and the executive vice president of a CWA local in North Hollywood. "I think this will send a message to management showing that we are united."

SBC amassed a team of about 40,000 employees to replace striking workers. Many of them include retirees and those from the ranks of management. The company said it does not foresee any disruptions going into the weekend.

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