Section 17: Inquiry by Board

17. Inquiry by Board (1) Where a claim has been referred to the Board under section 14 (2), it shall hold an inquiry at such place and on such date and time as may be fixed by the Chairperson. (2) At least 14 days’ notice of the first meeting of the Board shall be given to the authorised officer and to every interested person. (3) At any inquiry before the Board, the procedure, the giving and taking of evidence, the summoning and remuneration of witnesses for attendance, and all other questions relating or incidental to the inquiry shall, in the absence of rules made by the Supreme Court, be governed by the laws prescribed for civil proceedings before the Supreme Court. (4) The parties may appear by Counsel before the Board. (5) The Board, or any person authorised by the Chairperson, may at any time before an award is made, enter upon and inspect land for any purpose connected with the inquiry. (6) Where after the appointment of the Board and before an inquiry is started under subsection (1), or while the inquiry is in progress, the parties agree on the amount of compensation to be paid under this Part, the agreement of the parties shall be made the award of the Board.