Mediation is a process in which an independent, neutral Mediator assists two or more disputing parties in resolving the dispute in a collaborative, consensual manner.

Mediators do not make decisions or judgments, instead they quickly and expertly help people in conflict to reach their own agreement together. Mediation is relatively new in Ireland. However, it is well established in many other countries including the UK, Australia, the United States and Canada. Mediation is based on two ideas: That the best people to resolve a dispute are the people who are actually involved. That sometimes when communication has broken down, or when feelings are running high, it can be useful to have the help of an impartial outsider to find a way forward