In March 2012 the Ministry of Justice in Ireland published the Scheme of a Mediation Bill following the publication of the draft Mediation Bill by the Law Reform Commission in 2010. The Scheme, which builds on the draft Bill, requires that both lawyers and the courts suggest mediation as an alternative to litigation in civil disputes. Recommendations also include the provision of an information session on mediation for those involved in family law disputes and for the regulation of the mediators' profession. The draft Bill is currently being considered by the Joint Oireachtas Committee for Justice, Defence and Equality. The Committee has until 1 June 2012 to report back to the Ministry.
