Is the agency obligated to wait to conduct an interview until the union representative can show up?
Within reason, yes. However, since the employee is not entitled to his/her personal choice of a specific representative, the agency does not have to postpone an interview for an unreasonable length of time to accommodate the employee’s preferences–particularly if other union representatives are available. (However, for AFGE Local 2361 the Labor Agreement Article 25 Section 2: A Union representative will be allowed to be present during any examination, interview, or questioning of the Employee by a representative of the Air Force (including local Security Forces) if the Employee requests representation, and the Employee reasonably believes disciplinary action may be taken against them. The Management Official will forego further discussion until the representative has the opportunity to be present, if representation has been requested by the Employee).
Related Questions
- When should an agency conduct the interview with owners of businesses and provide the other advisory services? How can agency compliance be documented?
- What are the agencys options when there is a request for a union representative at an investigatory examination?
- Can agency workers join trade unions?
