Regarding Raymond W. Vegso's comments on the above subject, I have the
following comment.
I certainly have no objection to due process, and agree completely with your
assertion that "The concept of "due process" need not be in conflict with
management rights. In fact if managers are wise they will establish good due
process procedures whether there is a union or not. Such processes serve
fairness and justice interests of all, and build mutual trust and respect."
Having said that, I wonder why you think it appropriate to have an otherwise
uninvolved employee attend a meeting between management and an employee where
there might be disciplinary action? If there is in fact due process in place
there is no need for this person's presence as a "witness": in fact it gets
in the way of confidentiality.
If I think I am going to be disciplined I do not particularly want another
employee witnessing it. If it is unfair, I can stand up for myself: if fair,
then what's the issue? Does everyone feel in such a position of weakness
relative to "management" that they need the involvement of others in order to
assure themselves? I have to agree with what I interpret to be Doug's
implied disapproval of implementing this type of arrangement. Let's take it
to its logical extreme, where we will have another employee sitting in with
meetings between the President of the company and the Board of Directors.
Gregg Conroy