Published 27 Jul, 2014
Dear Local 541 and 542 Members:
Earlier today, the International Executive Council—upon recommendation of the International Administrative Committee— voted unanimously to place your Local into a temporary trusteeship and to suspend all Local 541 and Local 542 officers while we conduct a full investigation of serious wrongdoing, and violations of the International Constitution, federal law and their oath of office.
As such, I have appointed International Vice President Gary Shults to administer all affairs of Local 541 and 542 until further notice.
Additionally, the International Administrative Committee will immediately impanel a three-person subcommittee of the International Executive Council to hold timely hearings to evaluate the conduct of Local 541 and Local 542 officers and to determine whether the allegations against them warrant further action.
The suspended officers will have ample opportunity to explain their actions, call witnesses, and otherwise defend themselves against these allegations.
While regrettable, this action was necessary to preserve the assets of the Local, ensure proper member representation and protect the integrity not only of Locals 541 and 542, but of our entire organization and all its affiliates. We believe the unanimity of the International Executive Council in taking this decisive step reflects the gravity of this situation.
Please be advised that actions taken today (July 25, 2014) were a result of violations of Article XVIII, Section 3, and Article V, Sections 4 to 6 of the International Constitution. A copy of the International Constitution can be found on the TWU website (www.twu.org) under the drop-down menu “Members,” subsection “Resources.”
The International will continue to keep you apprised of this situation. We ask that no unfair or uninformed judgments be made until the investigation takes place and a decision is rendered by the Subcommittee. In the meantime, feel confident that International Vice President and Administrator Gary Shults will protect your rights as a member of the TWU and the valuable assets of your Locals.