Posted by A PEN reader informed us of this MSPB decision. Apparently the MSPB appellant, LaGreca, was held responsible for errors made by her representative Debby Szeredy. Szeredy is a candidate for APWU Clerk Division Director.
In their decision MSPB states:
“…to the extent that the appellant cites Szeredy’s agreement with her incorrect interpretation of the filing deadline as the reason for her delay, she has failed to establish good cause for her untimely filing. The Board’s regulations allow parties wide discretion in choosing their representatives, subject only to disqualification for conflict of interest or position. Walton v. Tennessee Valley Authority, 48 M.S.P.R. 462, 469 (1991); 5 C.F.R. § 1201.31(b). Apart from those bases for disqualification, the appellant’s choice of representative is personal to her, and she may choose to be represented by an attorney or a non-attorney, at her discretion. See Walton, 48 M.S.P.R. at 469. Notwithstanding the choice, however, she remains responsible for the actions or inactions of her chosen representative and cannot avoid the consequences of her choice.”
My use of the Merit System Protection Board regarding my USPS National Reassessment case has been both informative and positive. I support Ms. Debby Szeredy as both my representative and as a candidate for national office with the American Postal Workers’ Union.
I am curious concerning the identity of “A PEN reader” who informed your site of my MSPB decision that is addressed in your blurb. Could the informant step forward and identity himself or herself? And if this person is another APWU official ( regardless of level or office)—-perhaps he or she can provide a brief synopsis of the support, guidance and representation that he or she has given to any union member or worker impacted by the National Reassessment Program. And perhaps he or she can give an account of the time spent–paid or otherwise–rendering that support, guidance and representation.
Because if he or she can’t do any of the above–then he or she—or they—really have no reasons or grounds with which to criticize either Debby Zeredy or myself.