Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We are trying to ensure that the code or codes of practice published under section 9 incorporate certain basic elements that clearly apply to all mediation, such as continuing professional development requirements for mediators, ethical standards to be observed by mediators, procedures for redress and so forth. I also have proposed amendment No. 23. I note that the Law Society of Ireland has stated it is very disappointed that proportionate and appropriate regulation of mediators has not been given a statutory basis in the Bill. While amendments to that effect are outside the scope of the Bill, it was put to us that we should urge the Minister to take urgent steps to bring this about as soon as possible. As I noted recently with regard to the unregulated profession of psychotherapy, allowing anybody to assume a so-called professional title that is nothing of the sort can be risky. The Minister referred to legal technicality and said amendment No. 19 would cause problems from a legal point of view.

I ask the barrister in our company to give his opinion as I am interested in hearing what he has to say on the matter.

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