by: Mike Armstrong | philly.com

The largest union representing workers at the parent company of The Inquirer, the Philadelphia Daily News, and Philly.com has agreed to begin early bargaining on a new contract as management of the media company continues to seek ways to cut expenses.

The Newspaper Guild of Greater Philadelphia told its members Thursday that it agreed to resume bargaining with Interstate General Media L.L.C. on Friday afternoon, but stressed that should talks break down, the 550 members it represents would be protected under the current contract, which expires in October.