Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 22 Jun 1999

Vol. 506 No. 5

Written Answers. - Court Accommodation.

Paul McGrath

Question:

214 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans, if any, he has to provide improved facilities at the courthouse in Mullingar, County Westmeath; the timescale for these proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15995/99]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

An architect has been appointed by Westmeath County Council which acts as this Department's agent in this matter to prepare plans for the refurbishment of Mullingar Courthouse. I wish to assure the Deputy that when draft plans have been drawn up all interested parties, i.e. the Judiciary, staff, legal profession, gardaí and other court users will be consulted in relation to the facilities to be provided there.

It is not possible at this stage to provide a precise time scale for the work given the nature of the planning, consultation and tendering processes. However my Department will continue to progress the project and that I am committed to providing modern courthouse accommodation in Mullingar as quickly as possible.