Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 22 Oct 1991

Vol. 411 No. 4

Written Answers. - Drogheda (Louth) Court Facilities.

Michael Bell

Question:

129 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Justice if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the Drogheda courthouse is no longer in operation because it was deemed to be a dangerous building and that the district court is currently being held in a parochial hall which is totally inadequate for the conduct of court proceedings and is an insult to all who have to participate in proceedings there; if he will outline the plans he has to deal urgently with the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Justice (Mr. Burke)

I am aware of the position in relation to the courthouse in Drogheda. I am also aware that arrangements have been made by Louth County Council, the responsible authority, for the use of a local parochial hall for sittings of the District Court while the courthouse continues to be unavailable. I have been informed that these premises are regarded as suitable and adequate for the purpose.

With regard to the courthouse itself, the building in question is one of a number of courthouses throughout the country which require renovation. Because of the limited availability of financial resources priorities have to be established between the different courthouses requiring attention. Until the Estimates for 1992 are finalised the programme for 1992 cannot be settled and I cannot indicate at this stage what priority can be given to the courthouse in Drogheda. I will continue to keep the matter under review.