UNITED States (U.S.) Ambassador to Guyana, Mr. D. Brent Hardt yesterday presented a number of books to the Supreme Court Library, towards promoting and supporting greater use of mediation as a form of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in the judicial system. The volumes, worth approximately US$2,000, are intended for use by mediators and other Judiciary personnel in an effort to increase their awareness and knowledge of mediating.
The diplomat said it is hoped that the targeted individuals will come to see the process as a cost-effective, efficient and fair means to deliver justice to disputing parties.
He recalled that mediation was first introduced to Guyana under the 1999-2004 Democracy and Governance Programme of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
“USAID is continuing to provide support for promoting the use of mediation in Guyana. Since 2002, USAID trained 70 mediators in Region 4…55 individuals from Region 6 received basic training in mediation. We hope that the training manuals and a Code of Conduct, when approved, will be used to continue the work that has started,” Hardt said.
He continued: “As part of our sustainability efforts, USAID is working closely with the Mediation Institute of Guyana…We hope that this organisation will be able to rise to the challenge of serving as a representative body for mediators in Guyana.
“USAID has also supported the promotion of mediation in the past through the publication and distribution of brochures, the airing of panel discussions promoting the use of mediation and public fora.  Sensitisation and training activities were also implemented for attorneys and judges,” Hardt disclosed.
Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Carl Singh expressed appreciation for the donation, citing, as his main concern, the attitude to mediation, of those in the legal profession and members of the Judiciary.
At the head table, too, during the function, was USAID Chief of Party, Government Enhancement Project, Mr. Dickson Bailey.