FSCO revises arbitration forms to require email addresses, issues new rules for use of electronic calendar system

The Dispute Resolution Services (DRS) section of the Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) has issued a new bulletin amending arbitration forms and outlining new rules for the use of an electronic calendar system for use in arbitrations.
The DRS eCalendar allows parties to book mediation and manage mediation files online.
During a transitional period, between July 4, 2011 and Jan. 31, 2012, participation in the eCalendar system is optional. FSCO’s new rules outline how to use eCalendar in reference to arbitration pre-hearing discussions, preliminary appeal conferences and in hearings.
Other rule changes include a requirement for a claimant and his or her representative to include valid email addresses in their applications for arbitration.
Also, FSCO reports, “Form A (Application for Mediation) and Form B (Response to an Application for Mediation) have been amended to include new fields requiring the applicant and the insurer to provide information relevant to the determination of whether the applicant is entitled to commence a mediation proceeding under section 55 of the SABS.”
FSCO has given a two-month grace period to get used to using its new forms. “The revised forms may be used beginning Aug. 2, 2011, and must be used on and after Oct. 1, 2011,” FSCO reports.
More information can be found at:
http://www.fsco.gov.on.ca/en/auto/autobulletins/2011/Pages/A-04-11.aspx