The Employment Relations Tribunal (ERT) is dedicated to maintaining fair and just workplace practices by addressing and resolving labour disputes. Its aims and objectives are crucial in fostering harmonious industrial relations and ensuring that both employees and employers operate within a framework of mutual respect and understanding.

Aims and Objectives:

  1. Settlement of Labour Disputes: The primary aim of the ERT is to settle labour disputes efficiently and effectively. This involves resolving conflicts between employers and employees or between trade unions and employers. The ERT’s approach is to provide a platform where both parties can present their cases and seek a fair resolution. By addressing disputes promptly, the ERT helps to maintain workplace stability and prevent escalation into more serious conflicts.
  2. Determination of Labour Disputes in the Civil Service and Private Sector: The ERT is responsible for determining labour disputes within both the civil service and the private sector. This broad mandate ensures that all employees, regardless of their employment sector, have access to a fair and impartial tribunal. The ERT examines the specifics of each case, considering relevant laws and regulations, to deliver judicious decisions that uphold the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved.
  3. Hear Appeals from the Decision of the Conciliation and Mediation Commission: Another key objective of the ERT is to hear appeals from decisions made by the Conciliation and Mediation Commission. This appellate function ensures that parties dissatisfied with the initial resolution process have a further opportunity to seek justice. The ERT reviews these cases comprehensively, ensuring that all aspects of the dispute are thoroughly examined and that the final decision is just and equitable.
  4. Promotion of Harmonious Industrial Relations: Promoting harmonious industrial relations is a central goal of the ERT. By fostering a cooperative and respectful environment between employers and employees, the ERT aims to minimize conflicts and enhance productivity. This involves not only resolving disputes but also engaging in proactive measures such as education and outreach to promote understanding of labor laws and the importance of fair treatment in the workplace.

By fulfilling these aims and objectives, the Employment Relations Tribunal plays a pivotal role in creating a balanced and fair labor market. Its efforts ensure that disputes are resolved justly, that workers’ rights are protected, and that employers can operate within a stable and predictable framework, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more productive economy.