Question

Which of the following might indicate that unions have not fulfilled their fair representation obligations?

a. Keeping member informed about an arbitration award that affects members' seniority rights.
b. Providing adequate defense of the grievant at an arbitration hearing.
c. Informing the grievant that the union accepted a different remedy than that asked for by the grievant.
d. Delaying grievance processing until the time limits in the grievance procedure have expired.
e. Including the duty of fair representation in union steward training programs.

Answer 1

Delaying grievance processing until the time limits in the grievance procedure have expired might indicate that unions have not fulfilled their fair representation obligations.

Step-by-step explanation:

When discussing unions fulfilling their fair representation obligations, it is important to consider actions that indicate a failure to represent members properly. Among the options provided, delaying grievance processing until the time limits in the grievance procedure have expired may suggest that unions are not fulfilling their obligations. This is because unions have a responsibility to promptly handle and advocate for grievances on behalf of their members. By intentionally delaying the process, unions are not providing fair representation.

The other options, such as keeping members informed about arbitration awards, providing defense at a hearing, informing the grievant about the accepted remedy, and including fair representation duty in steward training, all indicate a commitment to fulfilling fair representation obligations.