Canada's recent history of restorative justice showcases the influence of mediation from Mennonite traditions and aboriginal peacemaking circles. In the mid-1990s, the RCMP introduced a third model, conferencing, from New Zealand through Australia. This article reviews the RCMP's experience with conferencing in both the South Pacific and Canada. It also discusses the impact of the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) of 2003 on police discretion and restorative justice opportunities, highlighting concerns related to the practice of 'shaming' and its potential link to violence.