Employers or, in the case of public sector employees, the hierarchical authority, are required to allow their employees or agents who are members of a council of the Bar, the time necessary to attend and participate in meetings of this council, its committees or its disciplinary chambers. The employee must inform the employer or the hierarchical authority of the meeting as soon as he is aware of it. Time spent away from work during working hours in order to carry out the duties of a member of the Association shall be treated as actual working time for the purposes of determining the duration of paid leave, entitlement to social insurance benefits and family benefits and with regard to all the rights to which the employee or public servant is entitled by virtue of his seniority in the company. Such absences shall not entail any reduction in their remuneration and related benefits.