(Cavan) asked the Minister for Justice if he will explain why the courtroom and bar-room of Cavan courthouse were excluded from a scheme of decoration and improvement carried out in the courthouse some years ago; and if he will take steps to have the courtroom and bar-room modernised in accordance with modern thinking.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cavan Courthouse.
31.
The provision and maintenance of courthouse accommodation in Cavan is the responsibility of the Cavan County Council. I cannot say why the courtroom and bar-room were not included in decoration and improvement work carried out some years ago. I may say that no complaints have been received in my Department in recent years in regard to the court accommodation in Cavan.
I understand that the county council are examining the question of modernising the courtroom. Some improvements could also be made to the bar-room and I will have this brought to the attention of the county council.
(Cavan): Is the Minister aware that since this question was tabled work has commenced on the decoration of the bar-room? I would like to take the opportunity of thanking the county manager and those concerned for this.
Is the Minister aware that the seating accommodation in the courtroom which is provided for the public, the press, and the legal profession is most uncomfortable? The acoustics are so bad that the general public have no idea what the judges are saying. Finally, would the Minister see to it that the ancient dock is removed from the building, in accordance with modern thinking?
As the Deputy knows, most of the matters mentioned by him are really for the local authority. I would suggest he might take the matter up with them.
(Cavan): I put down this question to the Minister for Local Government and it was transferred to the Minister for Justice.