Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 189: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality when will the Mediation Bill include restorative Justice Mediation; and if he will provide an update on same. [21005/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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The position is that the Mediation Bill, which is currently being drafted, will give effect to the undertaking in the Government's Programme for National Recovery (2011–2016) to encourage and facilitate the use of mediation to resolve civil, commercial and family disputes. I have also forwarded the draft Bill to the Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality for any observations or suggestions they may have prior to finalising its contents.

Restorative justice is a process in the criminal justice field which seeks to address the needs of victims of crime and the offenders. It fosters active involvement on the part of victims while encouraging the offenders to make amends and to take responsibility for their actions. However, it is not intended that the Mediation Bill will deal with criminal justice matters.