The issue in this grievance is whether an alternate steward must be released if the regular certified steward is on-the-clock but unavailable because he/she is already processing grievances. The union contends that the alternate steward should be released when the regular steward is unavailable. It is the position of the Postal Service that alternate stewards shall not be entitled to official time at the same time the regular steward is processing grievances on-the-clock. Pursuant to Article 17, Section 2 of the National Agreement, "stewards will be certified to represent employees in specific work location(s) on their tour; provided no more than one steward may be certified to represent employees in a particular work location(s)." Based upon the above considerations, the grievance is denied.
Document Type: USPS Position Letter
APWU National Grievance Number: H1C3FC44026
Craft: Clerk