Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 December 2004
135 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if sufficient funds are being provided by his Department to facilitate the upgrading and replacement of the courthouses throughout the country which are deemed to be in need of attention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32723/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Courts Service Act 1998, the Courts Service — which is responsible for the day to day management of the courts — is independent in the performance of its functions. I am responsible for ensuring that the service is adequately funded and, in this regard, €96.7 million has been provided for 2005. Furthermore, I have given the go ahead for the new criminal court complex, to be located at Infirmary Road, Dublin, which will be the first PPP project undertaken in the courts building programme.
Having regard to the statutory independence of the Courts Service, it is a matter for the service to decide how the funding provided is specifically allocated. The funding provided allows the Courts Service to progress the implementation of its strategic plans and policies and I am confident that the level of funding provided is adequate not only to maintain existing levels of service but also to provide for improvements in services and in court accommodation.
