Kathryn Reilly (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 65:

In page 36, between lines 17 and 18, to insert the following:

“(3) A complainant may, in proceedings before a mediation officer in respect of a complaint presented, or dispute reverted by an adjudication officer, by the complainant under this Part, be accompanied and represented by -

(a) a trade union official within the meaning of section 11 of the Act of 1990,

(b) an official of a body in respect of which the mediation officer, is satisfied represents the interests of employers,

(c) a practising barrister or practising solicitor,

(d) in the case of a complainant who is less than 18 years of age, the complainant’s parent or guardian in addition to a person specified in paragraph (a), (b) or (c),

and

(e) any other person with the permission of the mediation officer, as may be appropriate.”.

The reason behind this amendment is that it was very unclear if the right to be represented would be applicable to mediation. This amendment seeks to ensure it is.