Fedex TA LTD
 

Dear Captain Dyer,

I was out on disability for quite some time and recently returned to flight status.Along with our crew force, I have been following the negotiating process and was cautiously optimistic at the announcement of a TA. However, I was in complete shock as to the distribution of the lump sum, which excludes the portion of the crew force that probably needs it the most, those out on LTD. Crew members should not be excluded or discriminated against, due to their health status.
As we both know, the MEC directed three individuals, block reps Mr. Don Ray, Ms. Anita Shew and attorney Mr. Marcus Migliore, to handle the lump sum distribution, to include those on LTD. The deal that they came up with and presented to the MEC, in contradiction to their instructions, and without legal ALPA bylaws basis, excluded pilots on LTD. The actions of these three individuals is clearly disparate treatment. Inexplicably, the MEC accepted their 11th hour proposal.
I reached out to Mr. Ray my block rep, for a rationale and explanation, and he denied having been a part of this decision (which was not the case), and cites ALPA bylaws as an explanation. No ALPA bylaws reference has been provided.
I cannot sit idly by and let this injustice that affects as many as three hundred crew members go unaddressed, and without seeking justification.
I am asking for the TA to be corrected to include those on LTD in the lump sum distribution, as was initially directed and desired by the MEC. Also, I am asking you and the MEC to deal in the appropriate manner with block reps that do not follow mandates, in order to maintain the integrity of the Union and the trust of the crew force.
I am fully aware of the dispute process by which to appeal this decision, and the 5% set aside for this. Sadly, this is no guarantee justice will prevail. I do not feel that those on LTD should have to go through that process with the same union that denied payment in the first place. It is up to the MEC and our union to protect and look after every pilot group, and always do the right thing. It is crucial that our membership is fully aware of this matter. To that end, I am including distribution of this email to our membership.
I trust you will give this matter your utmost attention and look forward to a resolution that includes all pilots on LTD during the amendable period. In unity.

Captain Jeff Ware.