Local Provides Grievance Training for Council Officers and Building Reps

Gripe or a Grievance?

Council officers and building reps were trained on how to evaluate and present grievances on behalf of their members. Participants were given a copy of their contract to determine if a specific situation violated their contract. A grievance is defined as “a violation of the union contract,” explained IFT staffer Deneen Pajeau. Many times, a member has a rightful complaint but it just doesn’t violate the contract. “Council officers need to be able to determine if it’s a gripe or a grievance.” IFT staffer Tonia Havard-Dew explained that the first thing a member needs to do is read their contract and look for the article or section that they feel has been violated. “It’s important to know your contract.” Next, a member should write down all the details, and then speak to their building rep or council president. If a member is not sure who to speak to, they should contact the Local 943 office for assistance at 708.633.0943. IFT field reps and Local 943 officers are often relied upon by the councils for further interpretation of their contract and/or writing up grievances. Another important factor when filing a grievance is not waiting too long. Often there are time limits that need to be followed.

So, is it a gripe or a grievance? Not sure? Call the Union!