Teamsters Canada Rail Conference

Sister and Brothers,

As per our discussions last week relative to the rumours regarding certain aspects of the Brotherhood Relief and Compensation Fund (BRCF). The question that was asked is as follows:

Question: If a member of BRCF attains 45 demerits at some point, is their BRCF policy suspended?

Answer: The answer to your question regarding suspension of membership benefits at 45 demerits is... no, the membership is not automatically suspended. Your question deserves a more detailed answer... a single incident wherein 45 demerits are assessed will not alter or suspend the member's entitlement to future benefits for eligible occurrences. On the other hand, if a member has acquired 45 demerits for several different types of claims over a relatively short period of time (and if some are for ineligible occurrences, examples are missing calls, late for work, insubordination, altercations) we may decide to reduce the member's level of participation and refund excess dues until the member is discipline free for at least a year.

Another consideration is how long the member has been with us. If a long time member has simply run into a string of bad luck, no change is made to their participation level. If a new member who joins in December is provided benefits for multiple claims by mid-January we must re-evaluate our relationship with that member. Our Constitution also provides any member who feels aggrieved by any decision or action taken regarding their membership the right to appeal that decision or action to their elected Board of Directors.

The BRCF handling of claims involving dismissal for an accumulation of demerits requires a close examination of the reasons why the demerits were assessed. If the majority of demerits are for eligible occurrences the claim is paid. If the majority of demerits are for ineligible events the claim for a dismissal based on an accumulation may be declined.

In calendar year 2009 we processed 282 Canadian claims for benefits. There were 18 refused claims. We paid Canadian members benefits amounting to $540,153. We received a total of $684,149 in dues from our entire Canadian membership. The calendar year 2009 shows a profit of $143,996 without any consideration for general and administrative costs. While $143,996 sounds like a lot of money it may be consumed in a hurry. For example, two dismissed members participating in the Fund at the maximum level of $200 per day, each entitled to and receiving benefits for 365 days will be paid $146,000 combined. Not every year is a profitable one and statistics vary from year to year and railroad to railroad.

Over the last 5 years we received $50 million in total dues from US and Canadian members. Benefits paid to Canadian and US members over that same period was $49.5 million.

Hope this addresses the issues and help with any questions that may arise. As well, I am sure the Mark Robb, International President, BRCF, would be more than happy to assist if you have any additional questions or concerns.

Fraternally,

D.J. Shewchuk
President
Teamsters Canada Rail Conference
 

Brotherhood's Relief and Compensation Fund website...