Steve, a production worker, was discharged after he
"travelled" up the progressive discipline ladder for
repeated violations of the company's rules. Joanne, a truck
driver, had her employment terminated when she attended work under
the influence of alcohol after having previously been given time
off to attend a residential treatment program. Scott, a long-term
employee with an otherwise clean record, lost his employment when
he stole scrap metal from the plant. Christine? Well, she was
discharged for the second time because she violated the agreement
she entered into directly with her employer setting out terms of
continued employment.
In each of the above cases, the employee's bargaining agent
(union) filed a grievance seeking, among other things,
reinstatement. And while the conduct of Steve, Joanne, Scott and
Christine was obviously different, their respective employers are
willing to give them one final
chance to repair, and redeem, the employment
relationship.
