The National Bargaining Council for the Road Freight and Logistics Industry (the Council) has introduced the Con/Arb process to its dispute resolution procedures.

Although this type of process has been used extensively by the CCMA for many years, it was never utilised by the Council.

The implication of this is that disputes will no longer be set down separately for conciliation and arbitration but will now be dealt with as one process and in one sitting. 

However, it is possible for parties to the dispute to object to the matter proceeding as a Con/Arb process (except for dismissals relating to probation). Such objection will, automatically, convert the dispute back to separated conciliation and arbitration processes, provided that the objection is received by the Council, and served on the other party, at least seven (7) days before the scheduled date.

Employers are advised to forward any notice of set-down received to the relevant NEASA office should they wish to file an objection.  

Jaco Swart
National Collective Bargaining Co-Ordinator