Chairman’s Statement on Mediation Week

Mediation is a growing field that is widely used in both the public and private sectors. Mediation can provide significant cost savings, enhance commercial relationships, and resolve disputes in real time. In addition, mediation may assist parties in litigation by narrowing issues or resolving a dispute in its entirety. As a tribute to its success, in 2011, the mediation community designated the third week in October as Mediation Week. This year, Mediation Week is observed October 12-18, 2014.

In recognition of Mediation Week, Chairman Cordero said “I would like to highlight the Federal Maritime Commission’s commitment to resolve international ocean shipping and cruise line passenger disputes through mediation whenever possible. I encourage regulated entities and the shipping public to take advantage of the free and confidential mediation and ombuds services provided by the Commission’s Office of Consumer Affairs & Dispute Resolution Services (CADRS).”

CADRS’s trained mediators and ombuds regularly assist shippers, ocean transportation intermediaries, common carriers, marine terminal operators, truckers, customs brokers, and cruise passengers resolve various types of commercial and consumer disputes. Examples of common disputes include: service contract interpretation, rates and surcharges, equipment issues, free time, demurrage and detention, and passenger inquiries and complaints. CADRS services are provided free of charge.

For more information regarding CADRS’s services

To obtain mediation or ombuds services, please contact CADRS at 866-448-9586 (toll free) or via email at complaints@fmc.gov.