ARTICLE

57.

Section 1 - General

Upon the effective date of this Agreement, all Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) schedule employees shall receive pay raises equal to or greater than the uncapped pay line for each Nonappropriated Fund (NAF) survey area in effect at that time. Pay will be set annually thereafter in accordance with the NAF pay survey. In no case shall any negative pay line be implemented by the Department.

Section 2 - VCS Prices

The parties agree that for the duration of this Agreement, Management will set Canteen prices and such prices will not be subject to negotiations. Management agrees to notify the Union prior to the implementation of price increases.

Section 3 - VCS Vacancies

To provide promotional opportunities for all VCS employees, internal candidates will be given first consideration for vacancies prior to hiring outside applicants. If a VCS employee is not selected, it shall be for bona fide reasons, and the employee will be given a written explanation of reasons for non-selection.

Section 4 - Storage of Personal Items

The availability of employee lockers or secure storage space for personal belongings is a subject for local negotiations. The supervisor will provide locks or other security devices to secure personal belongings.

Section 5 - VCS/VA Interchange Agreement

Within six (6) months of the effective date of this Agreement, the parties will submit a request to OPM for an Interchange Agreement that will allow the transfer of VCS employees to VA civil service positions. If OPM denies the request, the parties shall continue aggressive efforts to get such an agreement.