Vol. 407 No. 8
15 Mr. Ryan asked the Minister for Justice if, in the light of the appalling and archaic physical conditions in which the courts operate, he will outline the plans he has to modernise and upgrade the conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I am satisfied that those courthouses in Dublin city which are provided and maintained by the Office of Public Works are in generally good condition.
A few courthouses in Dublin and all courthouses outside Dublin are the responsibility of local authorities. I accept that many of these courthouses are in a deplorable condition due mainly to the reluctance of local authorities over the years to spend money on them. It was partly for this reason that I secured Government approval last year for a change in the method of financing these courthouses. In future, while local authorities will continue to be responsible for courthouses, my Department will recoup to them the full capital cost of approved major renovation schemes. It will also recoup some of the maintenance costs. I am satisfied that the new arrangements will, in the course of time, lead to significant improvements.
