ARTICLE XV, PAR. D. --- At least (60) days prior to the end of the employee's extended illness status, the employee's condition shall be reviewed by the Company and further extensions in the period of extended illness status may be granted if circumstances warrant. Thirty (30) days before the end of the employee's extended illness status, the Company shall notify the employee, the System General Chairman, and the Local Committee of its decision to extend the employee's extended illness status or to separate the employee. Separation by termination of the employee's extended illness status shall be automatic and the Company shall not be required to follow the procedures specified in the Disciplinary Action Article of the Agreement.

1. If the Company grants an extension of the period of extended illness status, the extension will be confirmed by letter to the Union indicating the length of the extension and the reason(s) therefor.

2. Following notice to the Union and the employee that the employee will be separated, the employee may file a grievance protesting his separation and the Union may appeal the Company's decision directly to Step three of the grievance procedure as provided in the Bargaining and Grievance Procedure Article of the Agreement.

3. The grievance must be filed within ten (10) days after the date of separation. If such appeal is not filed, the Company's action shall be final and binding.