10 Iúil 2014, 09:42
The problem-solving approach provides added capacity to address the wider socio-economic problem of crime in disadvantaged and high-need areas, by helping offenders through restorative justice, rather than deterrent and retributive models, according to a new report from the Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality.
The Report on Hearings in Relation to Community Courts says that Community Courts also offer an added advantage of engagement with businesses and the wider public in addressing problems.
The Committee was told that, based on actual crime statistics, Dublin is one of the safest capital cities in the world, however, a new initiative is required to improve the environment of the streets which in turn will enhance business activity and thus bring jobs to our city.
The Committee concludes that:
• Local communities must have a change in mindset regarding the feasibility and potential benefits of the Community Courts model;
• Any attempt to introduce a Community Courts systems must be undertaken in consultation with the local community and should take account of local needs;
• Community Courts can only be successful with a strong commitment to community engagement and collaboration between various agencies;
• The Community Courts model has transformed the Times Square area of New York and returned the streets to the community.
The Committee recommends:
• That a pilot scheme be carried out in one of the policing districts in central Dublin, under the supervision of a single judge, supported by an Implementation Group and with the support of local community groups and services.
• A central Dublin location for the pilot scheme.
• That this initiative be given full consideration by the Minister for Justice and Equality, with a view to the introduction of a pilot scheme as soon as possible.
Committee Chairman David Stanton TD said: “Already established in a number of countries, such as the UK, USA and Canada, community courts take a problem-solving justice approach to dealing with what are considered minor crimes such as disorderly conduct, anti-social behaviour, petty theft and criminal damage. The system sees the vast majority of offenders undertaking community service in the neighbourhood to make some reparation for their offences. Availing of health and social services, the system provides immediate access to justice, cuts down on the number of people being incarcerated and, in areas where it is established, has led to a fall in the number of people repeating offences.
“The Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality agreed to invite written submissions from interested groups and individuals in relation to its proposed study on the feasibility of introducing a Community Courts system in Ireland. We were interested to hear from anyone who had direct and/or indirect experience of dealing with the judicial system and their views on whether a Community Courts system would be beneficial. The Committee received 17 submissions from various groups/individuals on this matter which identified a number of key areas which need to be examined. We are conscious of the effort that went into producing the submissions and would like to express, to all concerned, our gratitude for the work and effort that was made in their preparation. Our report will be forwarded to the Minister of Justice for her consideration.”
Read the Report here.
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Committee Membership
Deputies: Niall Collins (FF); Marcella Corcoran Kennedy (FG); Alan Farrell (FG); Anne Ferris (LAB) [Vice-Chairman]; Seán Kenny (LAB); Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (SF); Finian McGrath (IND); John Paul Phelan (FG); David Stanton (FG) [Chairman]
Senators: Ivana Bacik (LAB); Martin Conway (FG); Rónán Mullen (IND); Denis O’Donovan (FF); Katherine Zappone (IND); Tony Mulcahy (FG).