Originally Posted by A320Flyer

Agreed. Having done ALPA volunteer work here and other airlines, I can attest that it is certainly tireless work and that reps should be allowed the opportunity to drop trips to work for the pilot group as necessary (including to attend certain "appreciation" social functions). Absolutely no issue at all with that! HOWEVER, it is also vitally important that this information be made available to all dues paying members. We do have a SPA ALPA website. It should be published periodically there. Who's dropping, how much and for what. "September: Rep XYZ, 22:30 4-day, attended ALPA Jumpseat Chairman's meetings in Washington D.C." This is one of the duties of the MEC Secretary-Treasurer. Keeping track of the drops, authorizing FPL payments and keeping the books open to the membership.
Now, let us understand why so much suspicion about "closed books" ensues amongst the ranks. Do you remember a couple of years ago a certain committee chairman, while out on a long-term medical (inactive status) doing ALPA volunteer work at home, and receiving full FPL month after month? If you recall, this scheme was only uncovered because of one pilot, with big cojones, personally went to Herndon to see the books. Why was this happening? Is this happening now? We don't know. Transparency leads to accountability which leads to cohesiveness and an effective functioning organization.
Trust, but verify. Tell me, am I wrong?