RAN Sharing proposals in Vodafone update

Connect has written formally to Vodafone Regional Operations North and South.

Following the discussions about RAN Sharing/Project Churchill with the company last month we have stressed to Vodafone that consideration needs to be given to lessen the negative impact that extensions beyond the original timescales have on our members' engagement in that process and perception of the project. Clearly our members expect due diligence to be followed and proper consideration given to retaining work in house, for example and it would not be appropriate to attempt to hurry the process up.

However where there are continued delays it is quite right that Connect stresses the need for greater clarity on issues of key importance to our members as a way of rebuilding confidence in the process.

While the detailed consultation is still to come on detailed proposals around TUPE, for example, we have proposed that Vodafone takes the opportunity to remind its employees of its full commitment to meaningfully consult and to give reassurance on specific issues such as pensions, job security and union recognition to Connect and our members. Moving forward Connect and Vodafone will be engaged in consultation to ensure that any commitments made are robust and protect our members impacted by RAN sharing.