SECTION 1. A Joint Labor/Management Committee shall be establish, (consisting of not more than two (2) representatives from the Union local and two (2) from management. Additional participants may be invited to attend by mutual agreement. This Committee shall normally meet every other month for the purpose of the settlement of problems and the improvement of communications and cooperation between the parties. The Committee shall give consideration to such matters as: the interpretation and application of this Agreement; the interpretation and application of rules, regulations, and policies; the correction of conditions making for grievances and misunderstandings; the promotion of education and training; the safeguarding of health, and advise on the safety effectiveness program; and the strengthening of the morale of the unit. Sessions will normally not exceed a two (2) hour period. Special meetings will be held at the request of either party. Employees who are union representatives will be on official time if on duty at the time of the meeting.

SECTION 2. Agenda items will be exchanged at least three (3) administrative work days before each regularly scheduled committee meeting date. Agenda items will be exchanged at least two (2) work days before each non-regularly scheduled meeting date. One designated Branch and management representative will be responsible for maintaining orderly discussions. Non-agenda items will be discussed if agreed to by both parties.

SECTION 3. A summary will be made of any understanding reached at these meetings. Management agrees to record and to have the summary typed. Management and the Branch will sign the summary. Only the jointly signed summary may be posted.

SECTION 4. It shall be the practice to initially consider and, if possible, settle each matter of dispute between Management and the Union at the point nearest to its origin and/or at the lowest level of where authority for decision exists. Matters will ordinarily not be considered by the Committee until effort(s) have been made to reach agreement at lower levels. If not resolved, the parties will forward a joint statement of positions and impact; one copy to the Branch Steward, NWSEO and one copy to the Chief, Satellite Operations Division. These parties will attempt formal resolution, which, if unsuccessful will require a written decision by the Director, Office of Operations.

SECTION 5. Whenever management or the Union takes the position that a particular subject matter is not appropriate for consultation, or discussion, as the case may be, it shall specify the reason or reasons for its position in writing.

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