Accessibility Features
Accessibility | Skip to Start of Article | Skip to Search | Skip to Navigation Menu | Skip to Themes | Skip to Regions | Skip to Members Sign InAccessibility Features
Accessibility | Skip to Start of Article | Skip to Search | Skip to Navigation Menu | Skip to Themes | Skip to Regions | Skip to Members Sign In
The Equality Commission has launched a conciliation service for disabled people in Northern Ireland. The service will provide an accessible alternative to court action for those wishing to address discrimination against those with disabilities.
Evelyn Collins, Chief Executive of the Equality Commission (left) with Ann Collins, Director of Shopmobility, at the launch of the Disability Conciliation Service.
The conciliation service, which is free of charge, is a way of resolving disputes by helping those involved reach agreement with the help of an impartial third party.
Eileen Lavery, Head of Strategic Enforcement at the Equality Commission welcomed the introduction of the conciliation service saying: “Proceeding to the court is not for everyone and we trust that disabled people and service providers who are in dispute will both welcome the opportunity to meet together to find workable agreeable solutions.
"A notable benefit of conciliation is that it can take less time than a court case and is aimed at finding a solution that satisfies all parties – a win/win approach securing a satisfactory resolution.
"We believe the process will empower disabled people by helping them achieve a wide range of outcomes, such as an apology, an explanation, compensation, or a commitment from the organisation to change policies and procedures to avoid future complaints.”
Conciliations often lead to a high level of successful outcomes. Experience elsewhere shows that a majority of cases result in full and final settlements of complaints. If, however, the conciliation process does not produce a satisfactory outcome for the disabled person, they will still have the right to pursue their complaint through the courts.
Another advantage of conciliation is that it is less adversarial than court action and most disputes can be resolved more quickly. Independent research shows that many people would prefer to avoid cost and sometimes confrontational litigation. They would prefer to settle disputes through discussion and negotiation that would lead to lasting change for disabled people and not simply compensatory payments.
Eileen Lavery added: “I believe this service can lead to real social change. As service providers engage in the conciliation process they will learn about disabled people and their rights. The process will encourage them to make lasting changes voluntarily.”
To find out more about the Equality Commission’s Disability Conciliation Service, contact the enquiry line on 028 9089 0890. A short guide on the Disability Conciliation Service is available on the Equality Commission’s website at www.equalityni.org.
Footer
NICVA | 61 Duncairn Gardens | Belfast | BT15 2GB
Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action is registered as a company limited by guarantee in Northern Ireland (No 1792) and is registered as a charity for tax purposes with the Inland Revenue