Once all of the ballot papers have been sorted and any doubtful ballots adjudicated, the key task of reconciliation can begin.
You must count all of the bundles and part bundles of ballot papers showing a valid vote for each candidate or party (depending on the contest).1
You must then add the total for each candidate or party to the total number of rejected ballot papers. This figure should match exactly the figure giving the total number of ballot papers obtained at the end of the verification process.
If the two figures agree you should proceed to the process of consulting the candidates and agents who are present on the provisional result.
If the figures do not agree you should follow the procedure for unreconciled results.
Procedure for unreconciled results
You should be satisfied that any result, or totals (as appropriate) reflects the ballots received. If the figures do not reconcile you should take steps in order to try to identify and rectify the discrepancy such as:
checking the storage area and check to ensure that all ballot boxes have been opened and are empty
checking all floors and surfaces for ballot papers that may have been dropped in the count venue
re-checking the verification figures and reconciliation for calculation mistakes
ensuring that all rejected ballot papers have been accounted for
checking that all bundles and part bundles have been counted
consider recounting the ballot papers in the bundles
You should also carry out and keep and audit trail of any other checks you deem necessary.