- Ask the person where they heard it from, because the source is usually the first place to check the truth of the information. If someone can't name a source be careful!
- Ask to see the agreement, ruling or settlement. Each document has signatures and/or people attached to it who can clarify the issues. Usually the document is pretty clear on what is the moment in time that applies. If the person can't explain what they read they probably didn't see it.
- Think about what the person is trying to accomplish by spreading the information. Also, why are they sharing it with you if they don't have their facts straight?
- Are there political motives behind the person sharing it? Are they trying to set you up? Are they thinking about the fallout?
- What is your liability for being a recipient of the information?
- Go to the person who should know the information and ask them the basis of the rumour. Chances are there is more to gain by being up to date and spreading the right information.
Whether it is Local politics, union-management relations or department personalities, try to spread the right information to the person beside you. Hopefully it will be like planting seeds in fertile ground instead of weeds taking over.
As for transfer agreements, rollover positions, and grievance settlements and awards ask someone who can interpret the document and has to implement it, such as the Local President and Vice-Presidents. We all work together and share information back and forth. We usually see the paper and keep copies of what we have to enforce. The agreements are also kept with the employer as they also signed them. If neither party has them the document probably doesn't exist.
If you have any questions about agreements please email a steward or get in touch with me at work.
In solidarity, Emidio.
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