Access to Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) processes such as mediation and arbitration provides families, workplaces, businesses and communities with efficient and effective ways to resolve their disputes without recourse to the Courts and litigation. The demand for ADR is growing in the justice system, in our personal and professional relationships, and in every sector of our economy.
The recent signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by the ADR Institute of Canada (ADRIC) and its seven regional Affiliates, a diverse group made up of individuals and corporate members from across the country representing the varied interests of ADR service providers and users, will increase their ability to build greater awareness of ADR, provide more accessible resolution options, and ensure the availability of certified ADR professionals.
The need for a revised MoU was determined in 2015 by the Presidents’ Roundtable (the Presidents of each Affiliate and ADRIC) when the previous versions (between ADRIC and each Affiliate separately) were found to be obsolete. The revision was an intensive multi-year process of communication, consultation and negotiation.
Now referring to themselves as the ADR Institute “Federation,” the organizations share the following common objectives:
- to increase and improve the understanding, acceptance and use of ADR by the public, business, academia and government;
- to ensure excellence and quality in the practice of ADR, including expansion of the recognition and use of ADR professional designations;
- to provide excellent services to all stakeholders; and
- to maximize the benefits of the relationship among the Affiliates and ADRIC
Excited by the new MoU and the opportunities it brings, some of the Presidents provided the following statements:
“The strength and relevance of our Federation are more important now than ever to ensure Canadians’ understanding of and access to dispute resolution – cost effective and timely justice.” Andrew Butt, President, ADRIC
“ADRIC once more demonstrates its leadership in ADR by continuing to strengthen its successful partnership between ADRIC and Affiliates in the building of national standards to deliver the best services to clients and users of ADR across all provides in Canada. ADRBC is thrilled to be part of this project.” Elton Simoes, President, ADRBC
“The ADR Institute of Alberta (ADRIA) is very proud of its long history of working with many to strengthen the use, understanding and availability of ADR in our communities. This MoU among the Affiliates and ADRIC is an affirmation of that continuing commitment on the part of ADRIA.” Michelle Simpson, President, ADRIA
“In a rapidly changing landscape on all aspects of appropriate access to justice and dispute resolution, being part of a robust national Federation is critical to our work in Saskatchewan.” Scott Siemens, President, ADRSK
“I believe that this MoU strengthens our regional voices, as well as our ability to provide consistent approaches to dispute resolution right across our country.” Eric Stutzman, President, ADRIM
The MoU document is accessible on the ADRIC website: ADRI MoU
For further information please contact:
Janet McKay, Executive Director
ADR Institute of Canada (ADRIC)
416-487-4733 x 105
With over 2000 member practitioners drawn from every corner of the country, ADRIC is Canada’s leading professional organization for alternative dispute resolution promoting conflict resolution through arbitration, mediation and other forms of ADR. ADRIC sets a national standard for best practices and quality assurance for industry-leading arbitration and mediation rules, codes of ethics and conduct, and discipline and complaint procedures.
ADRIC’s affiliates include ADRBC (BC), ADRIA (AB), ADRSK (SK), ADRIM (MB), ADRIO (ON), IMAQ (QC) and ADRAI (Atlantic Provinces).
