Ms Rose Wall:

Depending on the case, there might be a role for mediation. CLM provides a mediation service. Mediation is particularly important when what is at issue are relationships such as disputes between neighbours, family members or colleagues where an ongoing relationship is critical. Sometimes the law is not the best avenue in such instances and mediation is much more appropriate. We have the family mediation service, through the civil legal aid scheme. The service can be a good mechanism for certain types of disputes. It is probably a less suitable mechanism where a client is up against a State body. A case can be more difficult in that situation. When what is at issue is a relationship, a damaged relationship and a dispute between parties who do have a relationship, then mediation certainly has a role.