Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

This section relates to the holding of mediation conferences to resolve disputes in relation to multi-unit developments. I have decided to amend the provision to provide that a court may, of its own volition, direct that mediation be attempted to resolve the conflict. It has always been my intention to encourage the use of mediation in these circumstances and I consider that allowing the court the opportunity to direct that mediation take place will further encourage the use of mediation as an alternative to court proceedings.

Amendment agreed to.

Question proposed: "That section 21, as amended, stand part of the Bill."