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There is no more important function to our union than the proper handling of time claims and grievances. To successfully prevail in the handling of claims and grievances, there must be solid facts and data that not only explain the violation but also contain information that will support the union's position. This information can only be developed by the local chairperson, from the information he receives from the member. The time claim or grievance must have every fact concerning the claim. Many instances occur where a general chairperson will receive a file on a claim or grievance from the local chairperson which lacks sufficient information and date to support the union's position. Both the local chairperson and the general chairperson may be fully convinced an actual violation occurred, but somewhere in the process of the handling on the local level, there was not sufficient information developed. This places the general chairperson and the union in a no-win situation. If the general chairperson progresses the violation to arbitration without sufficient data, he/she no doubt will receive a denial award. If the denial award only effected the one claim or grievance, the situation would not be so serious. However, in most situations, a denial award could have the effect of losing an important provision in the collective bargaining agreement. If the provision was part of a system agreement, it could result in an adverse effect on the members working under the contract on the railroad. If it was a provision under a national agreement, it could have an adverse effect on our entire membership subject to such national agreement.
This page last updated: 03/06/2005 |