Our employer already recognises a staff association for our grade of workers, but we think our union should be recognised. Can we submit a claim to the Central Arbitration Committee (CAC)?

If the staff association is not an independent trade union, an application can be made for de-recognition.

The procedure is similar to that for statutory recognition in that there must be 10% support initially and a ballot resulting in a majority in favour of de-recognition. Also, at least 40% of those eligible to vote must participate in the ballot.

If the de-recognition application succeeds, an application for statutory recognition can then be made by the independent trade union.