board in the wake of the Grotto Bay Hotel tipping saga, it was disclosed yesterday.

Labour and Home Affairs Minister the Hon. Irving Pearman said discussions were aimed at bringing the legislation "back on track.'' They involved leading Government figures, including himself, and the Attorney General's chambers.

Mr. Pearman said available options would be scrutinised "to find a solution which will bring the intent of the Act, that is, the peaceful resolution of disputes in an essential industry, back on track.'' Earlier this week, the new Essential Industries Disputes Settlement Board ordered Grotto Bay to restore the system of mandatory gratuities it scrapped on January 1.

The hotel, however, has rejected the board's award, saying employees are better off under the new system.

Under the legislation, there is no clear provision for enforcing the board's awards.

Mr. Pearman expressed extreme dismay yesterday over the Grotto Bay wrangle.