I have learned this afternoon that Electrue/Connect (CDSL) have been forced to terminate their contract with NESN with ninety days notice. Obviously thus far there are only initial reports of this and nothing is certain as yet.
An official statement is expected from CDSL tomorrow at some point which should clarify things a little better than they presently are from that side. I do not expect any statement to be forthcoming from NESN as was the case the last time we asked for comment.
From the information I have at present it would appear that CDSL have issued the notice as stated on the contract as of this afternoon. They have their own call centre and software systems in place to handle the calls at present.
NESN have (although I have not seen this) issued an email asking their agents not to progress any work on CDSL’s behalf in a show of unity. Effectively calling for strike action against it’s client once again.
Thus far the feedback that the team at UKW have recieved is that most agents will continue to carry out the work on behalf of CDSL for the moment. This would obviously throw a spanner in NESN’s plans to stop the continuity of work.
I have spoken with CDSL at length and the outlook from them is very positive and encouraging so if you are caught up in all this please hang on and do not jump to rash actions. My own personal advice is to speak to CDSL and NESN and try to manage your way through this change. The one thing that CDSL want to see now is continuity of work and they are prepared to offer many levels of support to the agents to acomplish this.
In the meantime, as I understand it, NESN will be paid their management fee for the duration of the notice period whilst CDSL handle all the administration and call handling services.
More news as we get it and no doubt the discussion will be opened in the forums.
Kenneth Watt
As ever this is personal opinion and comment on the part of the author.