Not enough demand on Island for mediation centre

It’s unlikely there would be demand to warrant establishing a mediation centre in the Island.

That’s the view of the MHK who chairs Tynwald’s Social Policy and Children Committee.

Yesterday, Juan Watterson today told Tynwald there is already a mediation network in the Island which encourages people to consider mediation before litigation, takes pressure off the courts and speeds up resolution.

He referred to a 2013 report which showed 90 per cent of cases in the Island which were referred to mediation led to positive outcomes.

Mr Watterson said while his committee felt the number of mediators already available locally would not support investment in a mediation centre, he praised the ‘vision’ of mediator Frank Hanna who gave evidence to them.

He said he would ask Mr Hanna to present a business case for such a facility.