The material presented
here is not Al-Anon Conference Approved Literature. It is a method
to exchange
information, ideas, feelings, problems and solutions on a personal
level.
What would you do if you were a trade union steward and were representing someone who had been sent home from work, twice, because they smelled of alcohol? They sit and tell you over and over that it is untrue; they are very aggrieved by the accusations. However, you know from personal experience that people with alcohol problems lie with impunity.
Then "Management" ring you and say, "T- this person is required to drive as part of their job. If they have an accident and injure themselves or someone else, we will be culpable because we suspected the drink problem but did nothing to stop them driving"
You go to a meeting with them and you are supposed to be on their side. A bit like a defence barrister defending someone who they really, deep down, think is guilty.
Maybe I should just declare a conflict of interest and tell the person they should find another representative. But how will that help them? Given my insight, should I not be able to help?
(I just hope to goodness this person doesn't frequent the MIP Board!)
I don't know that in representing someone you are supposed to be on their side. I think some of the issue is to give them counsel.
I can't see that being a member of al anon is a conflict of interest. Remember the three C's, if they don't want to deal with their problem its their choice, you don't have to fix the situation.
Sticky situation. It seems to me that if someone was sent home because they were thought to be intoxicated, and that person drove for the company, the company could ask for a blood test if there was a suspicion. Then there would be no question as to what the result would be. My daughter got hurt on the job and a blood test was required by the company. I realize this person wasn't hurt, but it seems odd that that either side can argue anything without any type of proof.
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If we think that miracles are normal, we will expect them. And expecting a miracle is the surest way to get one.
I know in the states the Union has all sorts of policies regarding a union member how is ill and seeking help for addiction. It is in the best interest of the union member to seek help and recover. Many Union members are afraid that they will lose their jobs if ther are admit to the problem.
Is there any guarantee of employmentand treatment that you can offer the union member before the hearing. That way the confrontation is avoided and problem solved\
If the member still insists that there is no problem then, as Christy indicates proof must be found
Years ago, there was a similar occurrence at the place where I worked. It turned out that the person had a metabolic problem that required medical treatment. A certain type of diabetes created an 'alcoholized'/ fermented breath. It resolved with medicine.
I am not suggesting this is the case in your situation. I know I would want to have the facts prior to making decisions.
