group.

The Centre for Community and Family Mediation said their service gets results and can save time and money which would be wasted on court action.

Conflict resolution practitioner Karen Laprade said the service could help sort out tensions at work, arguments between shopkeepers and customers and rows between neighbours, roommates, relatives and couples. "The mediator keeps the process fair, does not take sides or offer solutions, ensures a safe and respectful dialogue and assists the parties to come to their own solutions.'' To find out more about the service, which is an off-shoot of the Coalition for the Protection of Children, call 292 7675.