UAE minister to investigate lack of disputes panel in Sharjah

ABU DHABI // The Minister of Justice has promised to look into Sharjah's failure to set up a dispute-resolution panel in Al Dhaid.

A 2001 law requires all courts to have such panels as a means of settling disputes out of court. But Al Dhaid still does not have one. Musabah Al Ketbi (Sharjah) told the minister, Dr Hadef Al Dhaheri, that this was causing residents huge problems and led to heavier workload for the courts.

Those involved in disputes either have to go through long court procedures or make the journey to Sharjah.

"I presented this question after requests from people from that area came to me," said Mr Al Ketbi. "I want the minister to solve this in the quickest way possible."

Dr Al Dhaheri said the panels were being assessed but he would look into Al Dhaid. He noted, however, that the caseload at Al Dhaid was small. Last year, the court had only 110 cases.

Abdul Rahman Al Owais, Minister of Culture, Youth and Social Development, did not attend yesterday's session.

Two questions were postponed until he attends the next session.

* Additional reporting by Ayesha Al Khoori