Commentary Power of the CAC to extend notification period
59.Section 7 amends paragraph 24 of Schedule A1. Paragraph 24 applies where the CAC gives notice under paragraph 22(3) or 23(2) that it intends to arrange for the holding of a ballot to determine whether the workers in the bargaining unit want the union(s) to be recognised to conduct collective bargaining on their behalf.
60.Paragraph 24(5) provides a fixed time period in which the union(s) alone or the union(s) and employer jointly may notify the CAC that they do not wish the CAC to arrange a ballot.
61.Section 7 replaces the existing paragraph 24(5) with new paragraphs 24(5), (6) and (7) to give the CAC the ability to extend the notification period on the request of both parties to give the parties more time to try to reach a voluntary agreement on recognition.