The question raised in this grievance is whether management violates Article 35 of the National Agreement by requiring employees with attendance problems to meet with a PAR counselor. After further review of this matter, we mutually agreed that no national interpretive issue is fairly presented in the particulars evidenced in this case. During our discussion, we mutually agreed that management should refer an employee with an attendance problem to meet with a PAR counselor if there is an indication of alcoholism or drug use is present. Each case must be reviewed on an individual basis, in accordance with Section 870 of the Employee and Labor Relations Manual. Conversely, if there is no indication that an employee's attendance problems are caused by alcoholism or drug use, then the employee cannot be required to meet with a PAR counselor. Accordingly, this grievance is being remanded to Step 3 for further processing, if necessary.
Document Type: Step 4 Agreement
APWU National Grievance Number: H1C3WC22050
Craft: Clerk