This episode focuses on Article 31 of the National Agreement, which governs information requests during grievance cases. Corey explains that this article is closely linked to Article 17, which deals with the right of stewards to access information for grievance processing.
Corey emphasizes that when a shop steward encounters a situation where management fails to provide requested information, they should always include a violation of Article 31 and Article 17 in their issue statement.
Corey further explains that management is obligated to provide “all relevant information” necessary for the union to process grievances. This includes information outside of the bargaining unit, and the union has the right to determine what information is relevant.
Corey then provides an example of a relevancy letter, a document used by management to challenge the union’s request for information. He reiterates that the union has the right to determine what information is relevant and that management cannot dictate what information is needed. He also provides a successful case from Arbitrator Mittenthal C-10363, which supports the union’s right to information.
Finally, he encourages listeners to document all information requests and to be persistent in obtaining the information they need, emphasizing that a violation of Articles 17 and 31 can be a powerful argument in a grievance case.