Millions could be saved if Nenagh’s Restorative Justice model goes nationwide - Hoctor

North Tipperary T.D. Máire Hoctor has said that the State could save millions if measures recommended in the Final Report on Restorative Justice issued from the National Commission on Restorative Justice are implemented by Government.

The report, launched by Minister for Justice Dermot Ahern (today 17th December 2009) and drawn up under the Chairmanship of Nenagh native, Judge Mary Martin, also highlights the model as a cost effective option for the criminal justice system.

This Final Report from the National Commission on Restorative Justice is partly based on Nenagh's pilot project, the Nenagh Community Reparation Project, which has been working in the town since 1999.  

"Restorative justice is a victim-sensitive response to criminal offending" said the local TD Máire Hoctor "which, through engagement with those affected by crime, aims to make amends for harm caused to victims and communities, and which facilitates offender rehabilitation and integration into society".   

"Victims who choose to participate generally want to communicate the impact of the crime or express their feelings to the offender" explained Deputy Hoctor, former director of the Nenagh Community Reparation Project and was its first chairperson.  

"The research suggests that, for offenders, facing the victim is a more difficult and emotional experience than the traditional court process - it is not an easy-way-out for offenders - it forces them to face up to their actions and to change their ways". Nenagh Community Reparation Project has had a success rate of 70% in deterring repeat offences.