andMr. Griffin asked the Minister for Justice if it is intended to close the District Court office in Thurles, County Tipperary; if he is aware that such a step would seriously inconvenience the public in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Thurles Court Office.
297.
The future of the District Court office in Thurles is under review at present following the occurrence of a vacancy in the clerkship in the office. I have not yet taken any decision in the matter.
The review arises under the terms of a productivity agreement which has concluded with the provincial District Court staff in 1973 as the basis for an improvement in their pay and grading structure. An essential element of the agreement is that the overall number of District Court offices be gradually reduced from 59 to about 40, as opportunities occur. The question that arises at the moment is whether Thurles might be amalgamated with a neighbouring office such as Nenagh. The Deputy may be assured that before taking a decision I will give very careful consideration to all aspects of the matter including the convenience of the public in the area.