(March 1, 2007)

In order to further improve the lines of communication and to respond to the concerns between the National VA Council and you our members, I have established a National VA Council Briefing. This NVAC Briefing will bring you the latest news and developments within DVA and provide you with the current status of issues this Council is currently addressing. I believe that this NVAC Briefing will greatly enhance the way in which we communicate and the way in which we share new information, keeping you better informed.

Alma L. Lee

National VA Council, President

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In This Briefing: What to do to be an “Observer” at Contract Negotiations

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This is written to make you aware of the process/steps you need to take should you be an “observer” during Contract Negotiations. 

Should Contract Negotiations on the Master Agreement between the Department of Veterans Affairs and AFGE/National VA Council be held at your facility or a facility in your surrounding area and you have been selected to be an “observer”, the following steps should be taken:

1. You or your Local need to contact the NVAC office to see how many “observers” will be allowed to attend.
2. You must be an approved “observer” from your Local.
3. If you are selected to be an “observer” and are less than 100% official time, you need to request authorized absence or official time to attend.
4. If you are selected to be an “observer” and are 100% official time, you need to make sure your facility knows that you will be in attendance at the negotiation session.

Should you have any questions, please call the National VA Council directly at (540) 345-6301.  Thanks!