Rory O'Hanlon
Ceist:424 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans, if any, he has for the refurbishment of the courthouses at Castleblayney and Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11988/98]
Written Answers. - Court Accommodation.
Local authorities have primary responsibility for the provision and maintenance of courthouses in their respective areas. In 1990, the Government decided to make this Department financially responsible for the refurbishment of courthouses and that local authorities should act as our agents in this regard.
Court sittings in Castleblayney have recently been transferred from the courthouse to a nearby hotel due to the very poor condition of the courthouse.
The space available in the courthouse at Castleblayney is more than sufficient to meet the needs of the courts. My Department will be taking this matter up with Monaghan County Council with a view to refurbishing the courthouse in partnership with other agencies who may wish to be involved in the project.
With regard to Monaghan Courthouse, I understand that this building was refurbished in 1986 by Monaghan County Council following a fire in 1981. Monaghan Courthouse currently accommodates the District and Circuit Courts and their offices, as well as a number of other agencies including, county council and health board staff. My Department recently asked Monaghan County Council to provide additional office space in the courthouse to meet the requirements of the courts given the increase in the volume of court business since 1986 and imminent technology developments. My Department is awaiting proposals from Monaghan County Council in this regard as they have the statutory responsibility to provide courthouse accommodation under the Courthouse (Maintenance and Provision) Act, 1935.