Voluntary departure incentives
- union members only

June 10 2002 - In an intriguing act of generosity, TELUS is offering early retirement and voluntary departure packages to its employees - but only if they are qualified union members.

"The voluntary departure packages are an important component of our operational efficiency program that is designed to improve significantly the effectiveness of TELUS' operations," says Darren Entwistle, TELUS president and CEO. "Successful companies earn the right to grow. This program will support our growth strategy, allowing TELUS to improve its profitability and quality of customer service despite the adverse financial impact of recent regulatory decisions."

The voluntary incentive are being offered to 11,000 unionized British Columbia and Alberta employees of TELUS and TELUS Mobility. The other 17,000 un-unionized employees are not eligible for the offer.

The program includes features such as:

- new business venture consultation
- a business idea database
- assistance with business plan development and business registration.

"The voluntary offers are designed to recognize the important contribution made by TELUS Communications and TELUS Mobility employees," adds Entwistle. "While many companies have initiated efficiency measures in this highly-competitive industry, TELUS is providing innovative choices to assist employees wishing to pursue a new direction or interest, or retire early."

It is not known how many employees will take up the offers which expire in October 2002. TELUS aims to manage employee departures to minimize customer service and business impacts. And the company will be selectively hiring new employees in growth areas.