Note! To All We Represent
THERE’S A NEW SHERIFF IN TOWN!

No, Denny Green isn’t back; however, the regularly acknowledged method of law enforcement in the Postal Service has now changed. In March 2005 the USPS notified the APWU that the responsibility for investigating certain types of employee misconduct was being shifted from the Postal Inspection Service (IS) to the Office of Inspector General (OIG).

The March letter also specified that “allegations of employee embezzlement, record falsification, workers compensation fraud, contract fraud, narcotic violations, and miscellaneous employee misconduct (application falsification, theft of postal property or services, non-postal crimes, etc.) would be referred to the local Office of the OIG Special Agent in Charge.

We are unsure of the significance regarding this shift of responsibilities and APWU Headquarters Officials are continuing to identify areas that may pose a problem towards the rights of Postal Employees. Locally, we began to look at the situation to determine if our advice to employees subject to an investigation may have to be modified. In one respect our advice remains the same…If called upon by the IS and/or OIG, ask for a representative at the outset. The first words out of your mouth should be: I’ll be happy to cooperate with your investigation but I am requesting to speak to my Union Representative before proceeding.” In order to be most effective we need an opportunity before the interview process of the investigation ensues to assess the situation and make recommendations to you that will help you maintain a level playing field.

We see way too many incidents of employees compromising their rights by engaging in investigatory interviews without utilizing their legal and/or contractual right for representation. In some cases you may be entirely innocent of wrong doing and still compromise your continued right to employment by racing in and not making sure your rights are invoked! In many instances the IS or OIG has no requirement to inform you of specific rights you may have. If you are like most people you’re already going to be nervous and apprehensive by being called on by unfamiliar people in an intimidating situation. Interviews of this type are extremely serious and may lead to grave consequences. Slow down and do yourself a favor, invoke your right to representation.

The Minneapolis Area Local is still in the process of thoroughly reviewing all aspects of OIG method(s), forms, terminology, and significance of this shift in duties toward the investigation and law enforcement within the USPS. As investigations by the OIG become more prevalent we will undoubtedly learn more of their tactics, methodology, mannerisms, and general operating procedure.

We have been advised the OIG uses several different forms than those we are accustomed to seeing from the IS. They use a modified version of the “Miranda Rights” form that unlike the PS 1067 Miranda used by the IS does not bear the word “Waiver” above the signature line one signs if waiving the right to have an attorney. The IS form simply reiterates to someone that they are waiving their rights by speaking without consulting an attorney. They utilize a form called the “Garrity” form and one called a “Kalkines.” These forms are OIG forms we are unaccustomed to seeing and subsequently we are working with our National Officers in order to ensure awareness of the proper legality and application towards Postal Employees. We trust our members are totally dedicated and honest employees; however, there have been situations where innocent people become victims of circumstance. Don’t let that be you! Please read all we publish on your behalf in order to keep yourself aware of this change in procedure(s).

Decentralization!

The Union has recently attended numerous meetings regarding staffing changes being anticipated and/or proposed by management. If you have been affected by a staffing change it is customary for management to conduct crew meetings in order to address all who may be impacted by their staffing changes.

The Union has traditionally attended management’s meeting in order to help answer contractual questions and articulate the what, why, and where’s of staffing modifications. We encourage management to hold these meetings because we think as the employer it is the right thing to do. In the interim and /or in the absence of a formal crew meeting your Steward should be able to answer and address any questions you may have. Stewards are trained and equipped to answer and address the concerns of the employees they represent.

Decentralization - When discussing the overall staffing landscape for the anticipated future management has revealed the Minneapolis P&DC would be required to undergo “decentralization” of secondary manual distribution of the mail. We were given no specific timetable but were told it was only a matter of when this staffing change would be implemented rather that if. Decentralization would result in shifting the responsibility for the processing of non-machinable incoming letters and flats from the P&DC out to the Stations and Branches. We are not aware at this time as to the total extent of the impact to the P&DC; however, we have been informed the impact to the Tour 1 Incoming secondary will be very significant. Because the work that was previously done in the Plant will now shift to the Stations there will be a corresponding impact to Station staffing.

Once again, we have been given no specifics and we will have what can be construed as our first “official’ meeting with management on Wednesday, October 19th. When management divulges specifics to their decentralization project we will make sure this information is shared with the appropriate Stewards, Officers, and potentially impacted employees.

Welcome Newly Hired Employees!

We all know what it’s like to be the new kid in school! No matter which craft you are in, you will be or have been presented with the opportunity to meet and/or work with newly hired employees. We have recently seen an increase in hiring of career work force employees, particularly in the Clerk Craft. Additionally, you may have a new co-worker in your area due to being converted into a Full-Time assignment. Please take the time to say hi and answer the many questions people may have about their new surroundings!

We all want to see continued career hiring and enhancement in all aspects of our employment. If you or someone you work with hasn’t joined the 25/25 COPA Club do so today! $10.00 will buy you a ton of opportunities and will also serve as insurance for a job and benefits thousands of people wish they could have! Ask a Steward on how you can take part or call 612-623-0677 and we’ll be happy to get the answer to any question you may have!