AT&T to cut 12,000 jobs due to economic downturn

[December 04, 2008]  NEW YORK (AP) -- AT&T says it is cutting 12,000 jobs, or about 4 percent of its work force, because of the economic downturn.

The Dallas-based telecommunications company said Thursday the job cuts will take place in December and throughout 2009.

The company also cited a changing business mix and a more streamlined structure as other reasons for the layoffs.

AT&T plans to take a charge of about $600 million in the fourth quarter to pay for severance costs.

[Associated Press]

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