If either you or the respondent thinks the decision is wrong, it can be appealed to the Circuit Court within 42 days of the date of the decision. If no appeal is made, any award may be enforced through the Circuit Court. There is specific protection in the Act against victimisation - being harassed or otherwise picked on just because you made a complaint to the Office. There is a mediation service also available in this office and if both parties agree the complaint can be referred for mediation. Mediation is an internationally recognised process carried out by a trained Equality Mediation Officer who will assist the parties in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement.
Mediation is conducted in private.
The agreement reached is signed by both parties and is confidential. Once signed it is legally binding and may be enforced through the Circuit Court. The Equal Status Act only cover incidents of discrimination occurring after 25 October 2000 and which have been notified to the respondent within 2 months. The investigation and mediation service is a free service. The Director has no power to award costs to either party.