1.  Either party may request a mediator from the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service if the parties do not reach a collective bargaining agreement:

(a) Within 120 days after the date on which the parties began negotiations or on or before February 1 of an odd-numbered year, whichever is earlier; or

(b) On or before any later date set by agreement of the parties.

2.  The mediator shall bring the parties together as soon as possible after his or her appointment and shall attempt to settle each issue in dispute within 21 days after his or her appointment or any later date set by agreement of the parties.