Vol. 509 No. 1
89 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress, if any, in relation to the renovation of the court building in Youghal, County Cork; when the renovation will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19747/99]
I refer the Deputy to my replies to Questions Nos. 258, 259 and 260 on 17 February 1998 and Question No. 169 on 26 November 1998, and I want to assure the Deputy that I remain committed to providing upgraded court accommodation in Youghal as soon as possible.
As stated in earlier replies my Department proposes to acquire a portion of a premises to be developed on a site at the rear of the courthouse. This additional space is required to accommodate the staff of the District Court office who are currently located in the UDC premises in Youghal. I understand that the development of the site had been delayed due to the need for an archaeological survey. I understand that negotiations on the terms of the lease with the developer have been finalised by the Office of Public Works which is acting on behalf of my Department and a lease agreement will be signed shortly.
I have been informed that work will commence on the site at the rear of the courthouse before the end of the year and will be completed in the summer of next year. It is then proposed to refurbish the courthouse and fit out the adjoining office accommodation. It is expected that this work will commence towards the end of next year.
