Worker Participation. The Publisher and the Guild agree that a joint Guild‑Management Committee (also known as the Worker Participation Committee) will be formed in the news department by both parties and will meet monthly. In an effort to encourage discussions of subjects not covered by the normal bargaining and grievance machinery, the Guild and the Publisher stipulate that top‑level personnel will participate in the meetings. The Company recognizes that participation of Guild-represented employees is a valuable part of the process. It is stipulated that, the Committee, meeting under the terms as outlined herein, may discuss matters affecting relations between employees and the employer, including matters relative to the introduction and operation of new automated equipment and the effects of such equipment on the job duties of employees who operate such equipment, but will not take up grievances, which would normally come up in the regular contract grievance machinery. The Committee also may monitor and discuss clerical problems as needed. The parties may decide from time to time to establish ad hoc committees to address specific issues as they arise. The Guild and Publisher members of such ad hoc committees will be selected separately by representatives from each side of the joint Guild-Management Committee. Each ad hoc committee will dissolve upon completion of its duties. The Publisher will continue to consult with the Guild before the appointment of newsroom supervisors, consistent with past practice. The Guild and the Publisher agree that all matters will be discussed on a collaborative basis and that due consideration will be given to the views of both parties. The Guild recognizes that all such discussions are consultative, and that, in any case, the Publisher retains the right to make all final decisions.
