As I have previously informed the Deputy, under the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998 management of the courts is the responsibility of the Courts Service which is independent in exercising its functions, which include the provision of accommodation for court sittings. However, in order to be of further assistance to the Deputy, I have had enquiries made and have been informed that the Courts Service in undertaking the detailed assessment of all Mayo venues will take into account a whole range of criteria such as caseload, physical condition of the building and availability of cells. The Service has confirmed that one of the criteria which will be fully considered during the assessment phase will be proximity to an alternative venue which will include an assessment of the impact of the availability or otherwise of public transport to the alternative venue.
The Courts Service has again assured me that no decision in relation to the future of any County Mayo courthouse will be taken without prior consultation with local interested parties and court users. This consultation has already begun and the views received including expressed views on the availability or otherwise of public transport will be taken into account in the decision making process which will be a matter for the Courts Service Board.
