We have heard of the Polar group trying to initiate a DFR against the Teamsters since before the decertification finalized. Verified after the Polar side refused to cough up their accessed funds to their new Teamster representation after decertification of ALPA. The Teamsters side fully expected this and planned for it. Polar leadership threatened it day one after single carrier status was determined by the NMB.
DFR against ALPA was certainly an option for the Atlas group prior to the decertification of ALPA, but we found that it was too costly, lengthy, and uncertain when reviewed thus the opting for decertification. Mostly because even if we won a DFR it would not guarantee continued representation by ALPA of the Atlas crews interests. The Atlas side is still considering suing ALPA for failure on many issues of fair representation to pay for the decertification costs and withheld past representation.
I believe the Polar initiative at a DFR is only riding on the FE issue because it is the only one handy that might work. Not too unlike tossing crap at a wall and seeing what sticks. Most likely just another attempt for your past leadership to grab at power again. Upon initiation of such, I doubt that it will go very far after your initial retained funds are used up. I don't see your fellow employed Polar members voluntarily coughing up their money for your benefit in a DFR.
DFR = Duty of Fair Representation
Last edited by nitty-gritty; 17th August 2009 at 17:49.