For Immediate Release:

Utility deregulation continued to unfold this morning with the surprise announcement of the purchase of CMP by Energy East. Union workers have known that the current maneuvering of forces in the newly deregulated industry meant this could happen, but this particular deal was as much a surprise to the union as to the general public.

The IBEW 1837 contract for union workers will remain in force until May 1, 2000. But from union members' point of view this will add considerable stress to their lives until things are settled. The deal could close just as the contract expires, which would leave the union bargaining with a brand new company and no work experience with them.

Rainy weather and short notice wasn't enough to stop twenty-plus IBEW members from turning out to picket the CMP annual meeting on May 21. Although the circumstances could have caused these workers to blame each other for their situation, they decided to band together and point their fingers at the company who is pulling the strings.

According to Bob Ward of Local 104, "We wanted to bring our situation to the attention of the stockholders – to have our side heard."