Mr. Philip Sack:

I probably brought ten or 12 cases to the CAC on behalf of EWCs. We found the procedure very useful in that it is easy to understand and quick. One can get decisions within a matter of weeks. The CAC also offers voluntary mediation on an informal basis. General practice is, before going to a formal hearing to resolve the dispute, to have up to several informal meetings to see if it is possible to resolve the dispute informally. I believe that is also possible through the Labour Court and the WRC. It is a very helpful procedure and we have been able to withdraw some of the complaints through voluntary agreement. However, it is a civil proceeding with that standard of test and the complainant can make their own case for the CAC and be given a fair hearing. It has worked well in the UK.