With the Public Sector desperately trying to save its pennies, stand by for much greater use of mediation within the employment sphere and beyond.
One example of the benefits appears in the Belfast Telegraph.
The Housing Executive claims its link-up with two restorative justice schemes is helping it deal with incidents of anti-social behaviour in north Down and Ards.
According to a spokesperson, there were 225 reports of anti-social behaviour made to the Bangor District Office last year, while there were also 173 reports made to the Executive’s Newtownards office.
Approximately 4,700 incidents of anti-social behaviour (ASB) were received and processed across the Hous“Most cases can be resolved by the use of warning letters, Acceptable Behaviour Contracts, or referral to our mediation service.”
In 2009-2010, the Housing Executive expanded its mediation service by partnering with two community-based schemes in Belfast.
Both Northern Ireland Alternatives and Community Restorative Justice Ireland mediate on cases referred to them by the Housing Executive.
“Over the past 12 months we have seen a significant increase in mediation referrals, from 89 to 184,” said Mr Mulhern, the Housing Executive's Community Manager.
“This approach is clearly having a positive impact.ing Executive's 35 District Offices."
Justin Patten, Mediator.