Research shows increase in restorative justice referrals (opens original article in a new tab)

Research shows a significant increase in restorative justice referrals and victim participation in Ireland, with plans to expand services nationwide.

• Restorative justice referrals by courts and probation service increased by 22% in 2025 to 1,030 cases
• 185 cases involved direct or indirect dialogue between victims and offenders, a 36% increase from 2024
• Probation Service plans to expand restorative justice services to all counties in Ireland
• Budget 2026 includes a 13% funding increase for the Probation Service to expand restorative justice services