Lodge Training. With approval of the Chief, which approval shall not be unreasonably denied, the Grievance Chair, or alternate in each bargaining unit, shall be released from regular duties, for not more than forty (40) hours each calendar year (16 of these hours may be paid) to attend Lodge meetings and seminars, or to conduct other Lodge business which cannot be conducted during the member’s normal working hours. Advance written notice must be provided to the Chief not less than seven (7) days in advance of the date requested for such release to begin. The notice shall contain the name of the member attending and the date(s) the member will be absent so the Employer may alter the work schedules to provide for adequate coverage while the member is released from duty.
