Gov’t targets win-win through dispute resolution

The Ministry of Justice has launched an ambitious programme to take dispute resolution across the country.

Packaged as alternative dispute resolution methods, the justice ministry is hoping that the programme will help persons settle conflicts peacefully. Schools, churches and communities have been targeted for alternative dispute resolution programmes which include restorative justice, child diversion, meditation and victim support services.

John Bassie, chairman of the Dispute Resolution Foundation, said that utilising the services made available through the alternative dispute resolution saves time. He also said that the cost of mediation will be born by the state.

"What is new is that anybody can get mediation, even those who cannot afford it, that is the critical thing. The Government is now saying, through a partnership with the Dispute Resolution Foundation, we will pay the mediators," Bassie said.

Approximately $100 million of taxpayers' money is being used to fund the restorative justice activities this year.

TIMELY JUSTICE

"People want justice, affordable justice, timely justice and that's what we do," Bassie said.

He reasoned that restorative justice not only saves time but it tends to reverse in a win-win for the parties involved.

"When a judge gives a decision someone is going to be unhappy, or both will be unhappy for that matter, but when you have a third party that you can sit with each other and discuss the issues, all the solutions, it is long-lasting and it saves friendships and business relationships," Bassie said.