I propose to take Questions Nos. 151 and 152 together.
In November 1999, I established the independent Courts Service on a statutory basis under the Courts Service Act, 1998. Under the Act, responsibility for the management of the courts system is now conferred on the Courts Service. Section 5 of the Courts Service Act, 1998, provides, inter alia, that the functions of the service shall be to provide, manage and maintain court buildings and to provide facilities for court users.
I am pleased to have been able to obtain Government approval for the allocation of significant funds for courthouse upgrading in recent years. During the lifetime of this Government, the financial provision for court buildings has increased from €11.3 million, £8.9 million, in 1997 to €26.9 million, £21.2 million, in 2002, which represents an increase of 138%.
Having regard to the statutory independence of the Courts Service, the Deputy will appreciate that it is a matter for the Courts Service to decide how funding provided is specifically allocated in connection with its ongoing replacement and refurbishment programme.
Question No. 153 answered with Question No. 150.
Question No. 154 answered with Question No. 27.