Jim Auld cites an example of Community Restorative Justice in operation: The Ballymurphy area of west Belfast was plagued by young people who met in a residential area to drink and listen to ghetto-blasters.
He says "lives were ruined" by the sense of intimidation felt by older residents, the litter problem, the scourge of loud music and public urination. To sort it out, neighbours first got together and then met CRJ volunteers.
A meeting was organised between the residents and the young people who felt they had had done little wrong. They agreed there would be just one ghetto-blaster and a maximum volume would be adhered to.
Bin bags would be provided and agreement was reached on the use of a toilet.