The Industrial Relations Commission (IRC) has set up virtual courtroom facilities for the hearing of disputes during the COVID-19 outbreak.
The Commission said there would be no in-person attendances at the Commission without the leave of the Chief Commissioner until further notice.
“The Commission is continuing to implement technology to assist parties to access the Commission during these unprecedented times, including the use of Virtual Courtroom (VCR),” the IRC said.
“If a Commissioner determines that a case is suitable for video conference then the Commission requires parties to ensure they are familiar with the use of this technology,” it said.
It said the Registry counter had been closed until further notice, with registry services to continue via email.
“When filing new matters, including notifying new disputes, parties must provide all contact phone numbers for themselves and their representatives for the purpose of telephone conciliations and compulsory conferences,” the Commission said.
“When filing evidence such as statements and affidavits where the total number of pages is below 50 (for the case, not per document) the registry will accept filing by email.”
The Commission said that where a matter was listed for hearing before 17 April, parties should confer on whether the matter was suitable to be heard on papers, via teleconference or if it needed to be deferred to a later date.
