In general, only the person seeking a copyright licence can refer disputed matters to the Tribunal. However, where the Tribunal has already made a decision in a particular area, the collecting society as well as the licensee may apply to the Tribunal to change that decision, usually on the grounds that circumstances have changed materially since the Tribunal last considered the matter. Any party to a Tribunal hearing may appeal against its decision, but only on points of law. In general, proceedings are initiated by serving a notice on the Secretary using the appropriate form shown in Schedule 3 to the Rules. Please refer to the Rules for further details concerning procedures.
Rules are in the process of revision to take account of new jurisdiction.
The Tribunal is required to give notice by advertisement of most reference or applications. The advertisements are usually placed under Official Notices in the Belfast, Edinburgh and London Gazettes, and where appropriate, other publications, and on the Tribunal's web pages. The Direction covers pre-hearing procedure, Chairman's Directions, preparation and service of evidence, procedure at the hearing and the Tribunal's power to award costs. Hearings The Act and Rules provide for parties to state their cases at an oral hearing. Every party to a reference or application which is considered at a hearing before the Tribunal is entitled to attend the hearing, to address the Tribunal, to give evidence and call witnesses.