WIREDGOV

Acas widens its conciliation service to Tribunal appeal cases

ADVISORY, CONCILIATION AND ARBITRATION SERVICE News Release issued by The Government News Network on 29 June 2007

Acas, the employment relations service, is extending its expertise by providing conciliation in selected cases referred to it by the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT).

Acas saves the UK economy approximately £25m each year through effective individual conciliation. In 2005/06 the EAT accepted 836 cases for appeal. The types of cases which are expected to be referred to Acas by the EAT include;

- where the parties employment relationship is ongoing

- where a case could be referred back to the employment tribunal

- appeals relating to monetary awards.

Rita Donaghy, Acas Chair said:

'Acas has been helping individuals settle their cases before reaching an employment tribunal for over 30 years. Around three-quarters of claims are settled or withdrawn with our help so it makes sense to extend our expertise further. We welcome the opportunity to work with the EAT to do this.'

The Honourable Mr Justice Elias, President of EAT said:

'We are delighted we have been able to reach an agreement with Acas to make its services available in cases where conciliation might assist the parties in reaching a resolution without the need for a Hearing."

Notes to editors

1. Acas' aim is to improve organisations and working life through better employment relations. It provides information, advice, training and a range of services working with employers and employees to prevent or resolve problems and improve performance. It is an independent statutory body governed by a Council consisting of the Acas Chair and employer, trade union and independent members.

Acas National
Brandon House, 180 Borough High Street, London SE1 1LW
http://www.acas.org.uk