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10 Section 8. If the matter has reached impasse, the Party declaring impasse must request assistance from the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) within seven (7) calendar days. If mediation does not resolve the dispute, the Parties will request assistance from the Federal Services Impasses Panel (FSIP) within five (5) calendar days. Section 9. Unless an emergency or compelling need exists, the Employer shall not implement the proposed change(s) prior to completion of full and proper negotiations, except as provided for in Section 7. Union participants in these negotiations shall be on official time, if otherwise in a duty status , for any FMCS/FSIP proceeding s, including but not limited to, preparation and investigation . ARTICLE 8 GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE Section 1. This article establishes a procedure for the consideration and resolution of grievances and shall be the exclusive procedure available to the employ ees in the bargaining unit and/or the Union for resolving such grievances. Only the Union will represent employees under this grievance procedure, however, the grievant may represent himself/herself. If an employee presents a grievance without Union repre sentation directly to the Employer, the Union will be given the opportunity to be present during the grievance proceedings, and upon request, receive any and all documentation relating thereto. Section 2. Most of the grievances arise from misunderstandi ngs or disputes which can be settled promptly and satisfactorily on an informal level. The Employer and the Union agree that reasonable efforts will be made by Management and the aggrieved Party(s) to settle grievances at the lowest possible level. In as much as dissatisfactions and disagreements arise occasionally among people in any work situation, the filing of a grievance will not be construed as reflecting unfavorably on an employee's good standing, his/her performance, or his/her loyalty or desirabi lity to the organization. Section 3. A grievance shall be defined as any complaint: A. By a BUE concerning any matter relating to the employment of the employee ; or

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