Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 July 2018
853. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when a site will be finalised for a new building (details supplied); when construction work will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33677/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is 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 negotiations are at an advanced stage on the acquisition of a site for a new courthouse in Portlaoise. When a site has been secured, the design of the project can be advanced with the assistance of the OPW.
A number of developments in relation to the Courts Service accommodation requirements are outlined in the Government's recent National Development Plan 2018 -2027. They include:
- Further new or refurbished courthouses in regional cities and county towns where facilities remain substandard (including Galway City, Wicklow Town, Portlaoise, Tralee and Roscommon) and further provincial locations such as An Clochan Liath (Dungloe) to serve as the Gaeltacht court for the region and Tuam;
- Regional Family Law Centres;
A nationwide condition survey of all court buildings in the estate will be undertaken to determine their condition and identify works required in relation to any issues identified and meet ongoing maintenance requirements.
