The purpose of the grievance procedure is to provide a fair, equitable
and timely forum for review and resolution of employment-related matters.
The Negotiated Grievance Procedure (NGP) for a unit is defined in the
contract or labor agreement. The NGP spells out the timeframes and
procedures that must be followed when a grievance is filed by a bargaining
unit employee under the NGP. Under a negotiated grievance procedure a
grievance is defined as any complaint:
- By any employee concerning any matter relating to the
employment of the employee;
- By any labor organization concerning any matter
relating to the employment of the employee;
- By any employee, labor organization, or agency
concerning the effect of interpretation or claim of breach of a
collective bargaining agreement;
- Any claimed violation, misinterpretation, or
misapplication of any law, rule, or regulation affecting conditions of
employment.
- Some matters are excluded from grievance procedure coverage. Those
exclusions are listed in the NGP. Unions and employees are protected
from retaliation for filing grievances and should be viewed as a viable
means for resolving disputes. Matters which are not resolved during the
grievance process can be forwarded to arbitration.
- A union steward normally presents a grievance on behalf of the
employee or union. The union steward represents bargaining unit
employees with grievances regardless of whether they are dues paying
members or not.
- Below are some tips for handling a grievance under the Negotiated
Grievance Procedure:
- Contact your servicing HR Specialist or Command Staff Advisor
- Familiarize yourself with the grievance, applicable contract
provisions and general issue before the grievance meeting.
- During the meeting, ask clarifying questions, take notes and
demonstrate respect for the process and the individuals involved.
- Hold the meeting in a private space and avoid interruptions.
- After the meeting, thoroughly investigate the facts surrounding the
grievance before you issue a decision.
- Make sure you issue your decision in a timely manner and request an
extension if circumstances prevent you from meeting decision deadlines.
- Keep close contact with CSA/HR Specialist throughout the process.
- Make sure your decision is well-reasoned and will serve the best
interests of the Command.
- Maintain mutual respect, as your relationship with your employee(s)
will extend beyond the issues of today’s grievance.
Please check with your local HR Specialist or Command Staff Advisor if
you have any questions regarding the Negotiated Grievance Procedure.