1.3  Stage 3 - Final Reference to the Independent Person

The independent person invites the parties to make final submissions.  If the independent person then believes it would be worthwhile, the parties may be given a short period of further discussion.

If there is no value in giving the parties more time - or if during any discussion the parties were unable to agree on how to bring the matter to a successful conclusion - then the independent person will proceed to a final binding arbitration.  Having heard the evidence and reached a conclusion the independent person will impose a revised package of terms and conditions applicable to each of the affected employees.

Time limit:  Ten (10) Business Days.