Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 March 2018
314. Deputy Mary Butler asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the timeframe for the roll-over from the temporary premises when the newly refurbished courthouse in County Waterford reopens; if there will be enhanced hours and services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13957/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra315. Deputy Mary Butler asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the District Courts in Dungarvan and Lismore, County Waterford, will continue to sit as per schedule when the newly refurbished courthouse in Waterford city reopens. [13958/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 314 and 315 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, under the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998 management of the courts, including the provision of accommodation for court sittings, is the responsibility of the Courts Service, which is independent in exercising its functions.
However, in order to be of assistance to the Deputy, I have had enquiries made and the Courts Service has informed me that the last sitting of Waterford District Court at Grace Dieu Manor will be on Wednesday 28 March 2018 and that the newly refurbished courthouse at Catherine Street, Waterford will re-open on Wednesday 4 April 2018.
The Courts Service has also informed me that the extended and refurbished courthouse in Waterford contains six courtrooms and all the necessary associated facilities in a modern courthouse. These include waiting areas, consultation rooms, victim support facilities, jury facilities, custody facilities and facilities for court users including legal practitioners and the Gardaí. The courtrooms are also fitted for the use of courtroom technology, including digital audio recording, evidence display and video-conferencing and the building is designed and built to be universally accessible.
The Courts Service has advised that Waterford Court Office will be operating increased public open hours from 10.00am to 13.00pm and from 14.00pm to 16.30pm.
The Courts Service has further advised that the opening of the newly refurbished courthouse in Waterford will not impact on the service presently provided at the District Courts in Dungarvan and Lismore. The current sittings will continue to sit as per schedule.
