AMINZ to provide mediation service for resolving EQC claims

AMINZ to provide mediation service for resolving EQC claims

The Arbitrators’ and Mediators’ Institute of New Zealand (AMINZ) this week launched an independent nationwide mediation service for Earthquake Commission (EQC) customers.

Under the new arrangement, AMINZ will independently administer the EQC Mediation Service.

Selected customers who have failed to reach a satisfactory outcome within the existing EQC complaints service may now have the choice of using leading mediators to help resolve complaints.

The Commission will be responsible for offering customers mediation. Once customers accept the mediation offer, they will be directed to AMINZ, the country’s leading professional agency for dispute resolution.

The choice of mediator is to be made independently of EQC, with customers being able to select their preferred mediator. EQC, along with the customer, would be bound by the outcome of a settlement reached at mediation.

The service is free to EQC customers, but does not cover any additional legal costs or fees for experts.

AMINZ Executive Director Deborah Hart said the initiative would deliver concrete results, in particular to those affected by recent earthquakes in the Canterbury region, both by eliminating the need for legal proceedings or involvement of the Ombudsman and making available some of the country’s top mediators.

“The benefits for New Zealanders rebuilding their lives and businesses in the wake of a disaster can hardly be overstated,” she said.

“Our Institute is a byword for independent resolution, professional standards and prompt service—all the things people in these situations need.”

For more information, please go to www.eqcmediation.org.nz HelpDesk: 0800 to mediate 10.30 am – 4.30am Monday – Friday.

ENDS

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