The mediation service administered by the Law Society of Northern Ireland has received accreditation from the Chartered Trading Standards Institute for consumer mediation.

The Dispute Resolution Service (DRS) is now the first and only mediation provider based in Northern Ireland offering accredited mediation services and mediators.

The DRS announced its accreditation at an event in the Northern Ireland Assembly buildings, attended by MLAs and representatives from business, community, voluntary and legal sectors.

Attendees were given an overview of the DRS and told of the growing importance assigned to mediation by the courts and the judiciary.

The event also highlighted the European Consumer Mediation Directive, which requires businesses to advise consumers in their terms and conditions if they offer mediation as a means to resolve any potential dispute and what mediation provider they suggest using.

Speaking at the mediation event, Brian Speers, chairman of the Dispute Resolution Service, said: “It is important that consumers and businesses throughout Northern Ireland are aware of what mediation is, understand how it can help them and that it is accessible through the accredited Dispute Resolution Service.

“For local consumers it is provides an alternative way of attempting to resolve their dispute which is free and often quicker.

“For local businesses they are now required by the European Consumer Mediation Directive to consider mediation with regards to consumer disputes.

“The cost to local businesses is minimal and the potential benefits in terms of overall cost savings underscores the effectiveness of mediation as a consumer dispute solution.

“We are delighted that the Dispute Resolution Service is the only mediation provider based in Northern Ireland to be fully accredited by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute for consumer mediation.

“We would encourage consumers and local businesses to find out more about how mediation can help them by contacting the DRS and visiting www.mediatorsni.com.”