Early collective agreement accepted at Bell Aliant

HALIFAX, Sept. 15 /CNW/ - Bell Aliant is pleased to confirm that its unionized employees in Atlantic Canada have accepted an early collective agreement. The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Atlantic Communications Council (CEPACC) announced earlier today that 76 per cent voted in favour of the agreement.

"We are extremely pleased that Bell Aliant employees in Atlantic Canada have accepted this new collective agreement, which provides a solid balance between job security and the cost containment our company needs to ensure a successful and sustainable future," said Karen Sheriff, president and CEO, Bell Aliant. "The ratification of an early agreement will benefit our employees and customers - and is significant, positive news for the entire company."

With this new agreement accepted, other alternative measures for cost reduction announced in the summer will no longer take place.

The new agreement replaces the current collective agreement, set to expire on December 31, 2011. The changes will be effective from October 1, 2010 until December 31, 2014. A joint implementation committee of union and management has been established in preparation.

About Bell Aliant

Bell Aliant (TSX: BA.UN) is one of North America's largest regional communications providers and the first company in Canada to cover an entire city with fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) technology with its FibreOP(TM) services. Through its operating entities it serves customers in six Canadian provinces with innovative information, communication and technology services including voice, data, Internet, video and value-added business solutions. Through its xwave offices, Bell Aliant also provides IT professional services and advanced technology solutions. Bell Aliant's employees deliver the highest quality of customer service, choice and convenience. More information can be found at www.bellaliant.ca.

For further information: Alyson Queen, Bell Aliant Corporate Affairs, 866-696-6700, [email protected]