Back to: Introduction to the Labour Relations Act (LRA)
10.3 Dispute Resolution Flow Diagrams
The Labour Relations Act includes visual aids such as dispute resolution flow diagrams to help parties understand the processes involved in resolving labour disputes. These diagrams provide a clear and concise overview of the steps and procedures that must be followed when a dispute arises.
The flow diagrams outline the different stages of dispute resolution, from the initial referral to the CCMA or a bargaining council, through conciliation and mediation, to arbitration or adjudication by the Labour Court. They also highlight the specific timeframes and requirements for each stage, ensuring that parties are aware of their rights and obligations throughout the process.
For example, the flow diagram for an unfair dismissal dispute might show the following steps:
- Referral to the CCMA within 30 days of dismissal.
- Conciliation meeting within 30 days of referral.
- If conciliation fails, referral to arbitration within 30 days.
- Arbitration hearing and award issued within 14 days of the hearing.
- If necessary, application for review by the Labour Court within six weeks of the award.
These flow diagrams are valuable tools for both employees and employers, providing a clear roadmap for navigating the dispute resolution process and ensuring that disputes are handled efficiently and fairly.