asked the Minister for Finance the date of the existing agreement between the Commissioners of Public Works and a catering contractor for the provision of public refreshments in the Four Courts; if he is aware of the quite inadequate facilities afforded to the general public and members of the solicitors' profession in contradistinction to the facilities, service and accommodation afforded in the barristers' refreshment rooms; and when improvements will be made for the benefit of the general public.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Four Courts Restaurant Facilities.
25.
The tenancy agreement between the Commissioners of Public Works and the catering contractor in respect of the restaurant accommodation at the Courts of Justice is dated 5th January, 1968.
The premises have been in use for their present purpose since the courts were reconstructed in 1931 and I have not received any complaint about shortcomings from the public or the Incorporated Law Society.
I take it that the Minister is speaking on behalf of the Minister for Finance and not from his knowledge as a solicitor? Would the Minister be good enough to use his good offices with his colleague to see that the members of the public are afforded the same accommodation as afforded to the minor branch of the legal profession?
I may have a certain sneaking sympathy with the import of the Deputy's question but I have had no personal experience of this since 5th January, 1968.
It is no better.