FR Doc 03-16545

[Federal Register: July 1, 2003 (Volume 68, Number 126)]
[Notices]
[Page 39111-39131]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr01jy03-86]

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DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

Office of the Secretary

Colombian Trade Union Training Program

AGENCY: Bureau of International Labor Affairs, Department of Labor.

ACTION: Notice of availability of funds and solicitation for grant
application (SGA 03-19).

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SUMMARY: This notice contains all of the necessary information and
forms needed to apply for grant funding. The U.S. Department of Labor
(USDOL), Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB), announces the
availability of funds to be granted by cooperative agreement (hereafter
referred to as ``grant'') to one or more qualifying organizations.
USDOL will award up to U.S. $700,000 through one or more grants to an
organization or organizations to develop and implement a project(s)
designed to contribute to the reduction of social conflict and violence
in Colombia by improving the ability of the Colombian trade union
movement to participate in the economic, political and social
development of the country; protect human and worker rights; and play a
positive role in the peace process. USDOL will competitively award a
grant to qualified organizations that demonstrate the capacity to
design, implement, and manage a project to:
[sbull] Bring Colombian trade unionists to the U.S. or a third
country to expose them to unionized workplaces with trade skills
similar to those of the Colombian trade unionists in order to enhance
their own skills and deepen their understanding of effective trade
union administration and industrial relations in a workplace outside
Colombia.
[sbull] Improve the skills of Colombian trade union leaders in
trade union administration, collective bargaining, dispute prevention
and resolution, English language, communication, and using computers.

DATES: The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday, August
8, 2003. Applications must be received by 4:45

[[Page 39112]]

p.m. (Eastern Time) at the address below.

ADDRESSES: Application forms will not be mailed. They are published as
part of this Federal Register notice and in the Federal Register, which
may be obtained from your nearest U.S. Government office or public
library or online at http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/index.html.
Applications must be delivered to: U.S. Department of
Labor, Procurement Services Center, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW., Room
N-5416, Attention: Lisa Harvey, Reference: SGA 03-19, Washington, DC
20210.
Applications sent by e-mail, telegram, or facsimile (FAX) will not
be accepted. Applications sent by other delivery services, such as
Federal Express, UPS, etc., will be accepted; the applicant, however,
bears the responsibility for timely submission. Applications that do
not meet the conditions set forth in this notice will not be honored.
No exceptions to the mailing and delivery requirements set forth in
this notice will be granted.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lisa Harvey, e-mail address:
harvey.lisa@dol.gov, tel: (202) 693-4570 (this is not a toll-free
number).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The expansion of global trade and investment
and the improvement of working conditions and protection of basic
worker rights are best understood as mutually reinforcing, and not
mutually exclusive objectives. In today's environment of widespread
market reforms and economic integration, efficient and fair labor
markets are a prerequisite for economic growth, increasing living
standards, and promoting employment in the U.S. As political
developments, market reforms, and the transition to a global economy
bring significant changes to national economies, individual labor
market systems need to change accordingly to remain viable and to
support their populations. In addition, the inability to manage the
development of a relatively open market economy during periods of
political and social transition impedes the development of political
democracy, social cohesion, and equity.
USDOL/ILAB carries out a worldwide International Cooperation
Program that helps address some of these difficulties by working to
ensure that the greatest possible number of workers benefit from a more
open world economy. The three major initiatives of the International
Cooperation Program are:
Improving Economic Opportunity and Income Security for Workers
(EOIS)--Under the EOIS initiative, USDOL works to strengthen developing
countries' abilities to build and institutionalize social safety net
policies and programs needed to improve working conditions and foster
economic growth. Projects under this initiative aim to increase
employment among targeted groups, improve workplace safety and health,
and increase access to social insurance.
Protecting the Basic Rights of Workers (PBRW)--Under the PBRW
initiative, USDOL works to implement the fundamental principles
embodied in the International Labor Organization's (ILO) Declaration on
Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, specifically working towards
strengthening the right to freedom of association and collective
bargaining, eliminating forced or compulsory labor, and eliminating
employment discrimination.
International HIV/AIDS Workplace-based Education Program (IHWEP)--
Under the IHWEP initiative, USDOL works to reduce the rate of HIV/AIDS
infection through workplace-based prevention and education programs and
to improve the workplace environment for workers living with HIV/AIDS.
The IHWEP program also works to build the capacity of the tripartite
partners to address the long-term impact of HIV/AIDS on labor markets
and economic development.
USDOL/ILAB manages its projects in partnership with stakeholders
representing the government, employers, workers, and other
organizations.

I. Authority

ILAB is authorized to award and administer this program by the
Consolidated Appropriations Resolution, 2003, Pub. L. 108-7, 117 Stat.
11 (2003).

II. Application Process

A. Eligible Applicants

Any commercial, international, educational, or not-for-profit
organization (including faith-based organizations) which has experience
in trade union skills training, knowledge of the international trade
union movement, experience working with the Colombian government, and
Colombian worker and employer organizations, and/or has experience
working with U.S. domestic trade unions is eligible for this grant(s).
Partnerships of more than one organization are also eligible although
in such a case a lead organization must be identified. The capability
of an applicant, partners, and co-applicants to perform necessary
aspects of this solicitation will be determined under Section XI--
Review and Selection of Applications for Award. All applicants are
requested to complete the Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for
Applicants (OMB No. 1225-0083) (see Appendix A).
Please note that eligible grant applicants must not be classified
under the Internal Revenue Code as a 501(c)(4) entity (see 26 U.S.C.
501(c)(4)). According to the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995, as
amended by 2 U.S.C. 1611, an organization, as described in section
501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, that engages in
lobbying activities will not be eligible for the receipt of federal
funds constituting an award, grant, or loan.

B. Submission of Applications

One (1) blue ink-signed original, complete application in English
plus two (2) copies of the application must be submitted to the U.S.
Department of Labor, Procurement Services Center, 200 Constitution
Avenue, NW., Room N-5416, Washington, DC 20210, no later than 4:45 p.m.
Eastern Time on the established due date. To aid with review of
applications, USDOL also encourages applicants to submit three (3)
additional paper copies of the application (five total). Applicants who
do not provide additional copies will not be penalized.
The application must consist of two (2) separate parts. Part I of
the application must contain the Standard Form (SF) 424, ``Application
for Federal Assistance'' and sections A-F of the Budget Information
Form SF 424A (see Appendix A). These forms are also available at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants.
Part II must contain a technical
proposal that demonstrates capabilities in accordance with the
statement of work (Section III) and the selection criteria (Section
XI).
To be considered responsive to this solicitation, the application
must consist of the above-mentioned separate sections not to exceed 40
single-sided (8\1/2\'' x 11'' or A4), double-spaced, 12-point font,
typed pages for which a response is submitted. Major sections and sub-
sections of the application should be divided and clearly identified
(e.g. 8, with tab dividers), and all pages shall be numbered.
Applicants are required to propose that a project address ALL of the
project objectives identified in the Statement of Work in Section III.
Any applications that do not conform to these standards may be deemed
non-responsive to this solicitation and may not be evaluated. The
application must include a table of contents and an abstract
summarizing the application in not more than two (2) pages. Standard
forms, attachments,

[[Page 39113]]

r[eacute]sum[eacute]s, exhibits, letters of support, and the abstract
are not counted towards the page limit. If an applicant exceeds the
stated page limit, the review panel has the discretion to deduct 10
points.
Upon completion of negotiations, the individual signing the SF 424
on behalf of the applicant must be authorized to bind the applicant.

C. Acceptable Methods of Submission

The grant application package must be received at the designated
place by the date and time specified, or it will not be considered.
Applications sent by e-mail, telegram, or facsimile (FAX) will not be
accepted. Applications sent by other delivery services, such as Federal
Express, UPS, etc., will be accepted; the applicant, however, bears the
responsibility for timely submission. Applications that do not meet the
conditions set forth in this notice will not be honored. No exceptions
to the mailing, delivery, and hand-delivery conditions set forth in
this notice will be granted.
Any application received at the Office of Procurement Services
after 4:45 pm Eastern Time on Friday, August 8, 2003 will not be
considered unless it is received before the award is made and:
[sbull] It was sent by registered or certified mail no later than
the fifth calendar day before [Enter Date]; or
[sbull] It was sent by U.S. Postal Service Express Mail/Next Day
Service from the post office to the addressee no later than 5 p.m. at
the place of mailing two (2) working days (excluding weekends and
Federal holidays), prior to [Enter date]; or
[sbull] It is determined by the Government that the late receipt
was due solely to mishandling by the Government after receipt at the
U.S. Department of Labor at the address indicated.
The only acceptable evidence to establish the date of mailing of a
late application sent by registered or certified mail is the U.S.
Postal Service postmark on the envelope or wrapper and on the original
receipt from the U.S. Postal Service. If the postmark is not legible,
an application received after the above closing time and date shall be
processed as if mailed late. ``Postmark'' means a printed, stamped, or
otherwise placed impression (not a postage meter machine impression)
that is readily identifiable without further action as having been
applied and affixed by an employee of the U.S. Postal Service on the
date of mailing. Therefore, applicants should request that the postal
clerk place a legible hand cancellation ``bull's-eye'' postmark on both
the receipt and the envelope or wrapper.
The only acceptable evidence to establish the date of mailing of a
late application sent by U.S. Postal Service Express Mail/Next Day
Service from the post office to the addressee is the date entered by
the Post Office receiving clerk on the ``Express Mail/Next Day
Service--Post Office to Addressee'' label and the postmark on the
envelope or wrapper on the original receipt from the U.S. Postal
Service. ``Postmark'' has the same meaning as defined above. Therefore,
applicants should request that the postal clerk place a legible hand
cancellation ``bull's-eye'' postmark on both the receipt and the
envelope or wrapper.
The only acceptable evidence to establish the time of receipt at
the U.S. Department of Labor is the date/time stamp of the Procurement
Service Center on the application wrapper or other documentary evidence
or receipt maintained by that office.
All applicants are advised that U.S. mail delivery in the
Washington DC area has been slow and erratic due to concerns involving
anthrax contamination. Applicants must take this into consideration
when preparing to meet the application deadline. It is recommended that
you confirm receipt of your application with your delivery service.

D. Funding Levels

Up to U.S. $700,000 is available for this project, and USDOL
reserves the right to award more than one grant. USDOL may award one or
more grants to one organization or several, or to a partnership of more
than one organization. The award of any sub-contract will be subject to
USDOL approval (see Section IV).

E. Program Duration

The duration of the project funded by this SGA is up to two (2)
years. The start date of program activities will be negotiated upon
award of the grant, which will take place no later than September 30,
2003.

III. Statement of Work

This SGA announces the availability of funds for a project to
contribute to the reduction of social conflict and violence in Colombia
by improving the ability of the Colombian trade union movement to:
participate in the economic, political and social development of the
country; protect human and worker rights; and play a positive role in
the peace process. Specific project objectives are identified in
Section III.C. Applicants should submit proposals for projects that
demonstrate the organizations' capabilities to implement a project in
accordance with the Statement of Work and the selection criteria. USDOL
encourages applicants to be creative in proposing innovative and cost-
effective interventions that will produce a demonstrable impact. Funds
will be provided by grant to qualifying organizations. The grant will
be actively managed by USDOL/ILAB to assure achievement of the stated
project objectives.

Note: Selection of an organization as a grant recipient does not
constitute approval of the grant application as submitted. Before
the actual grant is awarded, USDOL may enter into negotiations about
such items as program components, funding levels, and administrative
systems in place to support grant implementation. If the
negotiations do not result in an acceptable submission, the Grant
Officer reserves the right to terminate the negotiation and decline
to fund the application. Award is also contingent upon signature of
a letter of agreement between USDOL and relevant ministries in
target countries.

A. Background and Problem Statement

Violence against trade unionists and their leaders continues to be
a critical problem in Colombia. In the midst of an armed conflict
between the government, guerrillas, and paramilitary forces, unions
have played a key role in mobilizing civil society in support of peace
negotiations. As a result, both paramilitary forces and guerilla groups
have targeted union leaders. According to the State Department's annual
Human Rights Report, 178 labor unionists were killed in 2002 and 1,875
have been killed since 1991. Also in 2002, an additional 189 received
death threats, 26 were kidnapped, 8 disappeared, and 17 members
survived physical attempts on their life. According to former Colombian
Labor Minister, Angelino Garzon, ``Colombia is losing an entire
generation of labor leaders whose contribution to improving economic
opportunities for workers through constructive dialogue with employers
and government is invaluable.''
Violence against trade unionists is perpetuated by a climate of
impunity. According to the State Department's Human Rights Report,
there were 376 criminal investigations into violations of the right to
life of unionists from August 1986 to April 2003. Of these, 321 were in
the preliminary stage, 24 were at the investigative stage, 3 were at
the trial stage, 7 had been sent to military criminal courts, and 13
were awaiting assignment. Guilty verdicts were issued in only five
cases.
Despite these major challenges, Colombia's trade unions continue to
play an important role as

[[Page 39114]]

representatives of workers in collective bargaining, as protagonists in
key national debates over economic policy (such as social security and
public sector reform), and as leading representatives of civil society
and supporters of peace negotiations. But the combination of physical
violence and economic insecurity has made it extremely difficult for
Colombian trade union leaders to develop the organizational and
administrative skills that they need to promote effective industrial
relations and function in a modern economy.

B. Target Population

The grantee will establish a selection procedure to identify
Colombian trade union leaders who could benefit from advanced training
in trade union administration, collective bargaining, dispute
prevention and resolution, and related skills.

C. Objectives

The Grantee will implement, in partnership with USDOL, a project
designed to contribute to the reduction of social conflict and violence
in Colombia by improving the ability of the Colombian trade union
movement to participate in the economic, political and social
development of the country; protect human and worker rights; and play a
positive role in the peace process. Specific project objectives
include:
[sbull] Improving the skills of Colombian trade union leaders in
trade union administration, collective bargaining, dispute prevention
and resolution, English language, communications, and using computers.
[sbull] Bringing Colombian trade unionists to the U.S. or a third
country to expose them to unionized workplaces with trade skills
similar to those of the Colombian trade unionists in order to enhance
their own skills and deepen their understanding of effective trade
union administration and industrial relations in a workplace outside
Colombia.
Relationship to USDOL Strategy: By helping to improve the capacity
of trade union leaders to contribute to the political, economic, and
social development of Colombia, protect human and worker rights, and
play a positive role in the peace process, the proposed project
supports achievement of USDOL's GPRA goal (3.3b) to, ``Improve living
standards and conditions of work for workers in developing and
transition countries.''

D. Type of Work To Be Performed/Activities

The selected Grantee(s) will be responsible for developing a
strategy for successfully achieving the stated objectives of the
project and addressing the problem(s) identified in the Background and
Problem Statement, developing and implementing the major tasks to be
accomplished as part of that strategy, tracking and reporting on
progress in achieving the stated objectives, and providing any
necessary services.
When developing the strategy and activities, the Applicant should
take into consideration the following issues:
[sbull] Need to carefully select for training those trade union
leaders who are: (a) Committed to training other trade unionists upon
completion of their training in the U.S. or a third country, (b) most
likely to adapt to living conditions in the U.S., (c) capable of
learning in all skill areas, and (d) well-respected within the labor
community for their commitment to democracy, honesty, transparency, and
the peaceful resolution of conflict.
[sbull] Need to effectively orient trainees prior to departure to
U.S. or a third country for training.
[sbull] Need to offer on-going counseling to those trainees who may
require it throughout their training in the U.S. or third country.
[sbull] Need to ensure that trainees are provided with
opportunities to disseminate their learning to other trade unionists
upon return to Colombia.

E. Expected Outcomes/Project Outputs

By the end of the grant period, the project will have:
[sbull] Trained at least 20 trade union leaders in trade union
administration, collective bargaining, dispute prevention and
resolution, English language, communication, and computer skills.
[sbull] Established a communication network between international
trade unions and non-governmental organizations that will provide
continued support to the trade union leaders upon their return to
Colombia.
[sbull] Developed a plan to safely reintegrate the trade union
leaders into Colombia.
[sbull] Developed and implemented a system to ensure that the
trained trade union leaders disseminate the information and skills that
they learned in the U.S. or third country to their Colombian
counterparts.
The selected Grantee will be responsible for identifying and
producing the activities, outputs, and deliverables that will support
achievement of these expected outcomes.

F. Deliverables

Following the award of the grant, the Grantee(s) shall collaborate
with USDOL/ILAB to:
[sbull] Develop a Project Document (including a project budget)
that will set the technical parameters and provide guidance to the
project. It should include all information and be prepared according to
the standardized format outlined by USDOL. While the Applicant's
original proposal will serve as the basis of the Project Document, in
every case USDOL has found it advantageous to visit the field and reach
consensus on the project strategy with host country counterparts in
order to further inform the project design. USDOL must receive a draft
of the Project Document 45 days after returning from travel to the
relevant area(s). The Project Document must be finalized no later than
30 days after receipt of USDOL comments on the draft.
[sbull] Establish a Workplan identifying major project activities,
deadlines for their completion, and person(s) responsible for
completing these activities (within 60 days after the Project Document
is finalized).
[sbull] Set project indicators, including indicators that support
ILAB's Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) goal, ``Improve
living standards and conditions of work for workers in developing and
transition countries.'' (within 90 days of finalizing the Project
Document).
[sbull] Create a Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) to establish the
data needed to measure achievement of project indicators and the
methods for collection and reporting. It should include all information
and be prepared according to the standardized format outlined by USDOL
(within 90 days of finalizing the Project Document).
The Grantee(s) must submit copies of all required documents to
USDOL by the specified due dates. Other documents that may be produced
are to be submitted by mutually agreed-upon deadlines. The Project
Document, Workplan, project indicators, PMP, and data collection system
are subject to final approval by the Grant Officer's Technical
Representative (GOTR) responsible for monitoring the grant.

G. Special Program Requirements

1. USDOL Responsibilities
Following the award of the grant(s), USDOL shall:

[[Page 39115]]

[sbull] Provide the Grantee(s) with programmatic support to help
ensure effective implementation of the project, including training and
consultation in USDOL/ILAB management, monitoring, and evaluation
systems and standard operating procedures.
[sbull] Provide advice and consultation to Grantee(s) on specific
program criteria.
[sbull] If, based upon the responses to this solicitation and
subsequent to the award, USDOL determines that it is necessary, travel
to the field with the Grantee(s) and other technical experts for a
project design mission before finalizing the project design and the
Project Document. USDOL will procure the services of technical experts
if it determines that such expertise is necessary for the project
design mission.
[sbull] Fund at least two project evaluations--a mid-term
evaluation at approximately the midpoint of the grant period and a
final evaluation approximately two months prior to the end of the grant
period. USDOL/ILAB--in consultation with the Grantee(s)--will be
responsible for drafting and finalizing all evaluation Terms of
Reference (TOR), procuring the services of an independent evaluator
(who will write the evaluation report), and providing at least one
representative from USDOL/ILAB to participate on the evaluation team,
when appropriate. USDOL/ILAB may choose to perform additional
evaluations as appropriate.
[sbull] Have the right, at all reasonable times, to review all
documents pertaining to the project, participate on field missions
(including monitoring and evaluation missions), and to discuss
administrative and technical issues pertaining to the project with the
Grantee.
2. Grantee Responsibilities
Following the award of the grant(s), the Grantee(s) shall:
[sbull] Establish the institutional and management systems and
means necessary to provide and monitor the delivery of services and
distribute wages and material effectively.
[sbull] If USDOL determines that it is necessary, travel to the
field with USDOL and other technical experts for a project design
mission before finalizing the project design and the Project Document.
The Grantee(s) shall bear the financial costs for having its
representative(s) participate on the project design mission.
[sbull] Assist in project evaluations, including reviewing and
providing comments on the evaluation Terms of Reference (TORs) drafted
by USDOL and evaluation reports written by the lead evaluator. If
invited to participate on an evaluation mission by USDOL, the
Grantee(s) shall bear the financial costs for having a representative
of the Grantee(s) participate on an evaluation team (e.g., travel, per
diem).
[sbull] Submit trip reports to USDOL within fourteen (14) calendar
days of project-related travel. If the implementing partner travels
with a USDOL staff member, the implementing organization will submit a
draft trip report to the staff member within fourteen (14) calendar
days of project-related travel for comments. The format for the trip
report will be provided by USDOL.
[sbull] Inform USDOL/ILAB at least one (1) month prior to
scheduling any major public events or ceremonies regarding the project.
[sbull] Submit to USDOL all media-related and educational materials
developed by it or its sub-contractors under this Grant(s), including
relevant press releases, for use in this project before they are
reproduced, published, or used. The Grantee(s) must consult with USDOL
to ensure that materials are compatible with USDOL materials relating
to its International Cooperation Program. USDOL considers brochures,
pamphlets, videotapes, slide-tape shows, curricula, and any other
training materials used in the project to be educational materials.
USDOL will review materials for technical accuracy. USDOL will also
review training curricula and purchased training materials for accuracy
before they are used. The Grantee(s) must obtain prior approval from
the Grant Officer for all materials developed or purchased under this
grant. All materials produced by Grantee(s) must be provided to USDOL
in digital format for possible publication on the Internet by USDOL.

IV. Key Personnel and Sub-Contractors

USDOL expects all key personnel to work full-time on the project.
All key personnel must be fluent in both written and spoken Spanish and
English. The Grant Officer must approve candidates for all key
personnel positions. USDOL's Grant Officer's Technical Representative
(GOTR) shall review candidates' qualifications and provide
recommendations to the Grant Officer regarding the selection of
candidates for all key personnel positions. The Grantee(s) shall submit
resumes, curricula vitae, and other relevant information to the GOTR
and receive approval from the Grant Officer before extending an offer
of employment and before the nominated individual conducts any
activities.
Key personnel may only be changed with the approval of the Grant
Officer. The Grantee(s) shall not substitute or replace key personnel
unless new personnel are at least equal in qualifications to those
personnel who are replaced. If a need to find new key personnel arises,
the Grantee(s) shall notify the GOTR as soon as the need becomes known.
If the Grant Officer is unable to approve the personnel change, he/she
reserves the right to terminate the grant.
Organizations may apply for funding in partnership with other
organizations, but in such a case, a lead organization must be
identified. Use of sub-contractors is subject to Federal laws and
regulations, including OMB circulars requiring free and open
competition for procurement transactions.
The Grant Officer must approve all sub-contractors. USDOL's Grant
Officer's Technical Representative (GOTR) shall review candidates'
qualifications and provide recommendations to the Grant Officer
regarding the selection of candidates for all sub-contractors. The lead
organization shall submit a list of previous projects implemented by
the proposed sub-contractor, along with a description of
qualifications, resumes, curricula vitae, and other relevant
information to the GOTR and receive approval from the Grant Officer
before extending a sub-contract. The lead organization shall not
substitute or replace sub-contractors unless new sub-contractors are at
least equal in qualifications to those that are replaced. Sub-
contractors may only be changed with the approval of the Grant Officer.
If a need to find new sub-contractors arises, the lead organization
shall notify the GOTR as soon as the need becomes known.

Note: Except as specifically provided, USDOL/ILAB acceptance of
a proposal and an award of federal funds to sponsor any program(s)
does not provide a waiver of any grant requirement and/or
procedures. For example, if an application identifies a specific
sub-contractor to provide the services, the USDOL/ILAB award does
not provide the justification or basis to sole-source the
procurement, i.e., to avoid competition.

V. Reporting Requirements

All reports (see Appendix B) are due no later than 30 days after
the end of a fiscal quarter and shall be submitted in English. USDOL/
ILAB and the Grantee(s) should work together to resolve any issues
within 30 days of receipt of a report.

[[Page 39116]]

A. Financial Reports

The Grantee(s) shall submit financial reports on a quarterly basis.
The first reporting period shall end on the last day of the fiscal
quarter (December 31, March 31, June 30, or September 30) during which
the grant was signed.
The Grantee(s) shall use Standard Form (SF) 269A, Financial Status
Report, to report the status of the funds, at the project level, during
the grant period. A final SF269A shall be submitted no later than 90
days following completion of the grant period.
If the Grantee(s) uses the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services Payment Management System (HHS PMS), they shall also send
USDOL copies of the PSC 272 that it submits to HHS, on the same
schedule. Otherwise, the Grantee(s) shall submit Standard Form (SF)
272, Federal Cash Transactions Report, on the same schedule as the
SF269A.
Financial reports are due within 30 days of the end of the
reporting period (i.e., by April 30, July 30, October 30, and January
30).

B. Technical Reporting Requirements

After signing the agreement, the Grantee(s) shall submit progress
reports to USDOL/ILAB at the end of each fiscal quarter. The first
reporting period shall end on the last day of the fiscal quarter
(December 31, March 31, June 30, or September 30) during which the
Grant was signed. Between reporting dates, the Grantee(s) shall also
immediately inform USDOL/ILAB of significant developments and/or
problems affecting the organization's ability to accomplish work.
The Grantee(s) shall submit two types of progress reports according
to the standardized format used by USDOL/ILAB:
1. Status Reports
Status Reports compare actual and planned activities during the
reporting period, which consists of one quarter (January--March and
July--September). Its purpose is to provide an update on the Workplan,
problems/solutions, major achievements, or modifications. The Status
Report should be brief and include an attached project Workplan
indicating the status of Workplan activities: ``completed,'' ``on
schedule,'' ``delayed,'' ``cancelled.'' The body of report should
provide a summary explanation of any deviation from the Workplan and
recommended actions.
Status Reports are due within 30 days of the end of the reporting
period (i.e., by April 30 and October 30).
2. Technical Progress Reports
Technical Progress Reports provide information on how the project
is progressing in achieving its stated objectives. Technical Progress
Reports will be based on the project's stated objectives, indicators,
and Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) and will provide both
quantitative and qualitative information and a narrative assessment of
performance for the preceding six-month period (January--June and
July--December). Data measuring achievement of the project's indicators
will be attached to the narrative, which will provide a composite
overview of progress, trends, problems, new proposals, lessons learned,
and expenditures. The body of the Technical Progress Report should be
2-3 pages in length, stressing major points related to strategy.
Technical Progress Reports are due within 30 days of the end of the
reporting period (i.e., by July 30 and January 30).

C. Instructions for Submitting Reports

All reports shall cite the assigned grant number. The Grantee(s)
shall submit hard copy of all financial reports to each of the
following persons:

Lawrence Kuss, Grant Officer, Procurement Services Center, U.S.
Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Ave., NW., Room N-5416,
Washington, DC 20210.
Laura Buffo, Grant Officer's Technical Representative, Office of
Foreign Relations, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Ave.,
NW., Room S-5303, Washington, DC 20210.
Gene Contee, Financial Management Services Center, U.S. Department of
Labor, 200 Constitution Ave., NW., Room S-5526, Washington, DC 20210.

The Grantee(s) shall submit one hard copy of all technical reports
to each of the following persons:

VI. Travel Procedures

The Grantee(s) shall submit a quarterly travel plan to the GOTR.
The plan shall include the following information for all individuals
traveling for the Grantee(s) to support activities covered by this
grant:
[sbull] Name of the person(s) who will be traveling;
[sbull] Destination(s);
[sbull] Dates of travel;
[sbull] Purpose of travel--what they will be doing and why.
The Grantee(s) should submit the quarterly travel plan no later
than four weeks prior to the start of each subsequent fiscal quarter
(e.g., By May 31, the GOTR should have travel plans for all Grantee
travel occurring July 1 through September 30). For a trip beginning
later than four weeks from the time the plan is submitted, dates should
reflect a ``best guess'' (rather than simply listing ``To Be
Determined''). The dates should, however, be finalized no later than 4
weeks prior to departure.
All travelers should submit finalized travel details to the GOTR no
later than 4 weeks prior to the desired departure date. If any major
holiday occurs during those 4 weeks, travelers should submit finalized
details earlier.
Individuals are not permitted to travel until USDOL/ILAB has
received country clearance from the State Department (via e-mail or
cable) or has received written authorization (including by e-mail) from
the GOTR. This also applies to expatriates living abroad who go on
personal or home leave: although they do not need clearance to enter
the U.S., they do need clearance to re-enter the country in which they
are stationed.
While travelers may cancel trips at any time, USDOL/ILAB will not
permit any amendments to a clearance cable (e.g., for changes in dates
of travel, or changes in the identified traveler) less than four weeks
prior to the desired date of departure, except in dire emergencies, as
determined by the GOTR.

VII. Acknowledgment of USDOL Funding

A. Acknowledgement on Printed Materials

In all circumstances, the following shall be displayed on printed
materials: ``Preparation of this item was funded by the United States
Department of Labor under Grant No. [insert the appropriate Grant
number].''
When issuing statements, press releases, requests for proposals,
bid solicitations, and other documents describing projects or programs
funded in whole or in part with Federal money, all Grantees receiving
Federal funds must clearly state:
[sbull] The percentage of the total costs of the program or
project, which will be financed with Federal money;
[sbull] The dollar amount of Federal funds for the project or
program; and

[[Page 39117]]

[sbull] The percentage and dollar amount of the total costs of the
project or program that will be financed by non-governmental sources.

B. Use of the USDOL Logo

In consultation with ILAB, the Grantee(s) will acknowledge USDOL's
role in one of the following ways:
[sbull] The USDOL logo may be applied to USDOL-funded material
prepared for world-wide distribution, including posters, videos,
pamphlets, research documents, national survey results, impact
evaluations, best practice reports, and other publications of global
interest. The Grantee(s) must consult with USDOL on whether the logo
may be used on any such items prior to final draft or final preparation
for distribution. In no event shall the USDOL logo be placed on any
item until USDOL has given the Grantee written permission to use the
logo on the item.
[sbull] All documents should include the following notice: ``This
document does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S.
Department of Labor, nor does mention of trade names, commercial
products, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.''

VIII. Administrative Requirements

A. General

Grantees, which may include faith-based organizations, will be
subject to applicable Federal laws (including provisions of
appropriations law) and the applicable Office of Management and Budget
(OMB) Circulars. Determinations of allowable costs will be made in
accordance with the applicable Federal cost principles, e.g., Non-
Profit Organizations--OMB Circular A-122. The grant(s) awarded under
this SGA will be subject to the following administrative standards and
provisions, if applicable:
[sbull] 29 CFR Part 36--Federal Standards for Nondiscrimination on
the Basis of Sex in Education Programs or Activities Receiving Federal
Financial Assistance.
[sbull] 29 CFR Part 93--New Restrictions on Lobbying.
[sbull] 29 CFR Part 95--Uniform Administrative Requirements for
Grants and Agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals
and Other Non-Profit Organizations, and with Commercial Organizations,
Foreign Governments, Organizations Under the Jurisdiction of Foreign
Governments and International Organizations.
[sbull] 29 CFR Part 96--Federal Standards for Audit of Federally
Funded Grants, Contracts and Agreements.
[sbull] 29 CFR Part 98--Federal Standards for Government wide
Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) and Government-wide
Requirements for Drug-Free Workplace (Grants).
[sbull] 29 CFR Part 99--Federal Standards for Audits of States,
Local Governments, and Non-Profit Organizations.

B. Sub-Contracts

Sub-contracts must be awarded in accordance with 29 CFR 95.40-48.
In compliance with Executive Orders 12876 as amended, 13230, 12928, and
13021 as amended, the Grantee(s) is strongly encouraged to provide
subcontracting opportunities to Historically Black Colleges and
Universities, Hispanic-Serving Institutions and Tribal Colleges and
Universities.

C. Encumbrance of Grant Funds

Grant funds may not be encumbered/obligated by the Grantee(s)
before or after the period of performance. Encumbrances/obligations
outstanding as of the end of the grant period may be liquidated (paid
out) after the end of the grant period. Such encumbrances/obligations
may involve only commitments for which a need existed during the grant
period and which are supported by approved contracts, purchase orders,
requisitions, invoices, bills, or other evidence of liability
consistent with the Grantee's purchasing procedures and incurred within
the grant period. All encumbrances/ obligations incurred during the
grant period must be liquidated within 90 days after the end of the
grant period, if practicable.

D. Site Visits

USDOL, through its authorized representatives, has the right, at
all reasonable times, to make site visits to review project
accomplishments and management control systems and to provide such
technical assistance as may be required. If USDOL makes any site visit
on the premises of the Grantee or a sub-contractor(s) under this grant,
the Grantee must provide and must require its sub-contractors to
provide all reasonable facilities and assistance for the safety and
convenience of the Government representatives in the performance of
their duties. All site visits and evaluations will be performed so as
not to unduly delay the work.

IX. Grant Closeout Procedures

A. Definitions

1. Grant Closeout
The closeout of a grant is the process by which a Federal grantor
agency determines that all applicable administrative actions and all
required work of the grant have been completed by the grantee and the
grantor.
2. Date of Completion
The date when all work under a grant is completed or the date in
the grant award document, or any supplement or amendment thereto, on
which Federal assistance ends, whichever comes first.
3. Disallowed Costs
Disallowed costs are those charges to a grant that the grantor
agency or its representative determines to not be allowed in accordance
with the applicable Federal Cost Principles or other conditions
contained in the grant.

B. Close-Out Procedures

Grants shall be closed out in accordance with the following
procedures:
[sbull] Upon request, the Grantor shall make prompt payments to a
Grantee for allowable reimbursable costs under the grant being closed
out.
[sbull] The Grantee shall immediately refund to the Grantor any
balance of unobligated (unencumbered) cash advanced to the Grantee that
is not authorized for retention by the Grantee for use on other grants.
[sbull] Within 90 days after completion of the grant, the Grantee
shall submit all financial, performance and other reports required by
the Grant Officer to close out the grant. The Grant Officer may
authorize extensions when requested by the grantee.
[sbull] The Grant Officer shall make a settlement for any upward or
downward adjustments to the Federal share of costs after these reports
are received.
[sbull] In the case of grants that include matching/in-kind
contributions, the Grantee is legally required to provide the total
amount of matching/in-kind contributions indicated on the face sheet of
the agreement, as amended. Failure to provide this level of matching/
in-kind contribution shall result in the disallowance of all or part of
otherwise allowable Federal share costs, equal to the total matching/
in-kind share committed to, less the share actually provided.
[sbull] In the event that a final audit has not been performed
prior to the closeout of the grant, the Grantor shall retain the right
to recover an appropriate amount after fully considering the
recommendations on disallowed costs resulting from the final audit.

X. Measuring the Performance of the Grantee

The performance of the Grantee will be assessed based on the timely
completion of one or more deliverables

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that will be due to USDOL at the end of each quarter of the Grant.
These deliverables should reflect the outcomes of the project that are
expected to help achieve the project's objective(s). Applicants are
requested to include in their proposal a project implementation plan
and approach to monitor the performance of the project throughout the
period of the grant. The implementation plan is to consist of a
quarterly schedule of activities and list of deliverables that would be
completed by the contractor each quarter. The defined list and schedule
of deliverables is viewed by USDOL as a key component of the technical
proposal.

XI. Review and Selection of Applications for Award

USDOL will screen all applications to determine whether all
required elements are present and clearly identifiable. A Technical
Panel will objectively rate each complete application against the
criteria described in this announcement. The panel recommendations to
the Grant Officer are advisory in nature. The Grant Officer may elect
to select one or more Grantees on the basis of the initial proposal
submission, or the Grant Officer may establish a competitive or
technically acceptable range for the purpose of selecting qualified
applicants. If deemed appropriate, following the Grant Officer's call
for the preparation and receipt of final revisions of proposals, the
evaluation process described above will be repeated to consider such
revisions. The Grant Officer will make a final selection determination
based on what is most advantageous to the Government, considering
factors such as panel findings, geographic presence of the applicants,
and the best value to the government, cost, and other factors. The
Grant Officer's determination for award under this SGA is final.

A. The Review Process

The criteria below will serve as the basis upon which submitted
applications will be evaluated. Technical aspects of the application
will constitute 100 points of the total evaluation. Up to five (5)
additional points will be given for leveraging non-Federal resources.
In order to assist USDOL in assessing the efficient and effective
allocation of project funding, the Applicant shall submit a project
budget that clearly details the costs for performing all of the
requirements presented in this solicitation, including producing all
deliverables, reporting on implementation and progress, and monitoring
progress. Applicants are reminded to budget for compliance with the
administrative requirements set forth (copies of all regulations are
referenced in this SGA are available at no cost, on-line, at http://www.dol.gov
). This includes the costs of performing activities such as
travel to Washington, DC to meet with USDOL/ILAB, financial audit,
project closeout, document preparation (e.g., progress reports, project
document), and ensuring compliance with procurement and property
standards. The Project Budget should identify administrative costs
separately from programmatic costs. In addition to the costs identified
previously, administrative costs include indirect costs from the costs
pool and the cost of activities, materials (e.g., project car), and
personnel (e.g., administrative assistants, office drivers) that
support the management and administration of the project but do not
provide direct services to project beneficiaries.
The technical panel will review grant applicants against the
criteria listed below on the basis of 100 points.

B. Technical Approach--45 Points

[sbull] The extent to which the application sets forth a clear and
supportable course of action to strengthen the capacity of Colombian
trade union leaders to: (a) More effectively support the economic,
political and social development of Colombia, (b) promote respect for
human and worker rights; and (c) play a positive role in the peace
process. The Applicant will be evaluated on the clear identification
and description of the specific strategy(s) the Applicant proposes to
use, its effectiveness, and attainability of project objectives by the
end of the grant period. (10 points)
[sbull] Demonstrated familiarity with the major issues related to
the components being addressed (e.g., general project context, key
problems and/or needs in the relevant country/area, the specific
problem(s) and/or need(s) that will be addressed by this project(s),
and relevant constraints). The Applicant will be evaluated on the
thorough and accurate assessment of the implementing environment and
the problems that exist and clear identification of the specific
problem(s) the Applicant proposes to address. (5 points)
[sbull] A monitoring and evaluation plan for measuring project
performance that includes challenging but realistic targets and
measurable, verifiable project indicators that measure achievement of
project objectives and performance in project implementation. (5
points)
[sbull] Submission of a schedule of quarterly deliverables that
will serve to determine the level of performance of the contractor. The
identification of deliverables that are presented in the proposal
should be objective, verifiable, and demonstrate progress in achieving
project objectives. (5 points)

C. Institutional Qualifications/Past Performance--25 Points

[sbull] Prior experience working with Colombian trade unionists to
strengthen their capacity to play a constructive role in the economic,
political and social development of Colombia. The application shall
include information as an attachment (which will not count towards the
page limit) regarding previous grants, contracts, or grants, including
(a) the organization for which the work was done, (b) a contact person
in that organization with his/her current phone number, (c) the dollar
value of the grant, contract, or Grant for the project(s), (d) the time
frame and professional effort, either directly by key personnel, by
consultants, or under contractual arrangements involved in the
project(s), (e) a brief summary of the work performed; and (f) a brief
summary of accomplishments. (10 points)
[sbull] Prior experience in designing and implementing activities
related to training in trade union administration, collective
bargaining, industrial dispute prevention and resolution, English as a
second language, basic computer literacy, and relocating training
candidates for training in the U.S. or a third country. (5 points)
[sbull] Clear organizational structure and management plan,
illustrating experience with carrying out participatory development
activities with organizations (i.e., government ministries, employer
organizations, worker organizations, community organizations) and
maintaining positive and effective relationships with partners. (5
points)
[sbull] Demonstration of strong financial management and internal
control systems. (5 points)

D. Experience of Personnel--30 Points

[sbull] Key personnel with prior experience directly related to the
proposed work, including technical and language qualifications,
professional competence, relevant academic background, and demonstrated
experience. Applicants shall submit a resume for each key personnel
proposed, which includes the individual's current employment status and
previous work experience, including position title, duties performed,
dates in position, employing

[[Page 39119]]

organizations, and educational background. Duties must be clearly
defined in terms of role performed (i.e., manager, team leader,
consultant). Resumes shall be included as attachments, which do not
count against the page limitation. (20 points)
[sbull] Clear management plan demonstrating the staffing
requirements and other resources needed to implement the approach. (10
points)

E. Leveraging of Grant Funding--5 Points

USDOL will award up to five (5) additional rating points to
applications that include non-Federal resources that significantly
expand the size and scope of project-related activities. These programs
will not be financed by the project, but can complement and enhance
project objectives. To be eligible for the additional points, the
applicant must list the resource(s), the nature, and possible
activities anticipated and any partnerships, linkages, or coordination
of activities, cooperative funding, etc.

F. Suggested Outline for Technical Proposal

This outline is provided as a guideline. Organizations may elect a
format of their choosing, subject to the requirements of this
announcement.

1. Executive Summary
2. Program Description
Goal and Objectives
Background
Technical Approach and Implementation Timetable (Proposed
Intervention)
Experience of Personnel
Identification of Deliverables and Quarterly Schedule of their
submission to determine contractor performance
Staffing Pattern and Project Management Organizational Chart
Leveraging of non-Federal Resources
3. Attachments
Summaries of other relevant organizational experiences
Resumes of key personnel and signed letters of commitment to the
project

This stated commitment will be incorporated into the text of the
grant with the selected applicant(s).

Signed at Washington, DC, this 25th day of June 2003.
Lawrence J. Kuss,
Grant Officer.
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[FR Doc. 03-16545 Filed 6-30-03; 8:45 am]

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