BCCI Initiates Feasibility Study Into
an Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre
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Lisa Gale
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The Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) has initiated a feasibility study into the establishment of an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) centre in Barbados.
Executive Director of the BCCI, Mrs. Lisa Gale advised: "For some time there have been concerns raised by the private sector about the long delays in the courts, and these delays have impacted many businesses in terms of high costs and delayed business decisions. One of the roles of the BCCI is to lobby for an effective and enabling business environment and the BCCI believes that the use of Alternative dispute resolution is one step in the right direction."
Ms. Gale added: "ADR is widely used in other jurisdictions as a means of settling disputes without the matter going to court. This assists in reducing bottle necks in the court system and can provide for a quicker resolution of disputes."
Compete Caribbean provided the technical and financial assistance for an extensive feasibility study and due diligence analysis to be conducted by Ms. Baria Ahmed, an expert in ADR from the UK. Ms Amed has been in Barbados speaking with several stakeholders in the government and private sector.
"From a preliminary review, Barbados is already well positioned to have an ADR Centre for domestic, regional and international disputes, but the study will also examine if such a centre would be sustainable," said Ms. Ahmed.
A review of the ADR expertise already in Barbados will also be conducted and opportunities which exist for ongoing capacity building through established educational institutions such as the University of the West Indies.
Ms. Ahmed will be returning to Barbados at the end of July to continue her meetings with stakeholders. Her official report is due at the end of September after she has a final meeting with stakeholders.