Government last week Thursday, tabled the Restorative Justice Bill in the National Assembly with the aim of “repairing the harm caused by an offence” and introducing alternative means of addressing criminal offences while strengthening the justice system and reducing the prison population.
Restorative justice, according to the bill, involves the provision of an opportunity for the offender and victim to seek a resolution that repairs the harm caused by the unlawful conduct. It also requires the offender to obtain treatment or counselling to address underlying mental health conditions, addictions, and other behavioural issues.
The bill was tabled by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall.