Process Overview
When to Refer a Dispute to IAC
Unionised Firms/Companies
A dispute between an employer and a union with regard to employment, non-employment or terms and conditions of employment should only be referred to IAC when the following steps have not been successful:
- Both parties should try to resolve the dispute through discussion and negotiation between themselves.
- If negotiation fails, they should seek the assistance of the Ministry of Manpower to conciliate between the parties.
A unionised dispute may also be referred to IAC for arbitration by:
- Minister for Manpower by notification in the Government Gazette;
- President of Singapore by proclamation where referral of disputes is deemed to be in the public interest.
Non-unionised Firms/Companies
Employees of non-unionised firms/companies can approach the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management (TADM) for assistance to resolve employment disputes.
