Responding to the DTLR consultation paper Tackling Antisocial Tenants, the TPAS called on ministers to consider holding tribunals in which antisocial behaviour cases were conducted "quickly, effectively and cheaply" in a manner similar to the American TV show Judge Judy. On the show, the judge rules on real-life cases within ten minutes.
TPAS chief executive Phil Morgan said: "The one consistent message we get from our members is the need for quick, effective solutions to tackling antisocial behaviour.
"Judge Judy-style housing tribunals would allow issues to be resolved quickly instead of dragging along for months through the court system. It would create a clearer link between the problems and resolutions in the eyes of those committing the antisocial behaviour.
"We need an expert in housing law to cut through the fog and nonsense and come up with solutions that will work."
Morgan denied the use of housing tribunals would intimidate people with mental health issues who are often accused of antisocial behaviour with little understanding of the support they need.
Keith Edwards, director of the Chartered Institute of Housing in Wales, said: "We're interested in solutions that intervene in antisocial behaviour situations early before major problems appear.
"If we are going to fast-track the system, there must be access to proper advice and support for those involved."
A spokesperson for the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, which took over this area of responsibility from the DTLR in the May reshuffle, said: "We welcome all responses to the consultation."
Source
Housing Today
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