The Union representing Telstra technicians has warned the $4.28 billion profit announced today by the company has come through cost cutting, failure to invest in essential network infrastructure and cuts to services, particularly in regional areas.
CEPU NSW Secretary Jim Metcher said the narrow push for dividends for investors came at the expense of the downgrading of services and cutting corners on network building and repairs.
“The board and management of Telstra find it relatively easy to generate profit if they sack staff and slash resources, but you won’t deliver 21st century telecommunications services by cuts,” said Mr Metcher.
“All this will lead to is massive phone outages and lengthy delays in repair times next times, particularly in regional and remote communities.
“Field technicians in country NSW are reporting shocking stories about the state of the Telstra network.
“Technicians have provided photos showing phone lines being held together by plastic bags and duct tape. There has also been a fourfold increase in faults reported in wet weather in some areas of NSW.
“People in regional NSW are not getting the quality or reliability of telephone and internet services they deserve.
“Technicians are not given the time they need to do proper repairs – instead they are forced into short-term fixes and often end up making multiple visits for a problem that should have been dealt with first time around.
“The outdated copper network is struggling to cope now let alone with future demand.
“Telstra should focus on becoming famous for delivering world-class network and customer services, rather than infamous for cuts,” Mr Metcher said.
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