Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

A great deal of work has been done, as the Deputy will know, between the Courts Service and the local council to identify the best option here. They examined the possibility of the courthouse remaining where it is, as well as other options including the Island of Geese site, which appears to be the site that has been selected for many reasons, not least that the development of the courthouse will allow for the expansion of its uses, which would be very beneficial.

While the introduction of additional ICT and capacity in that sense, and a move towards more remote working, is very beneficial, it will not apply in every instance. There will be a significant number of cases where sittings have to happen in person, in particular for jury trials. I fully accept where the Deputy is coming from and I think it is important that if the courthouse does not remain where it currently is, the building should be put to good use so that the community will not see an empty building. Work needs to be done with the local council to identify what that potential use could be. My understanding is this decision needs to be taken by the local council in conjunction with the Courts Service, but I am happy to revert to the Deputy on the matter as it progresses and to ensure all options are being explored.

Selecting the most appropriate site to ensure that the courthouse can be used in the best possible way, expand its services and benefit people not just in Tralee but also in the surrounding areas has to be everybody's over-riding objective, and I acknowledge it is the Deputy's. At the same time, we must ensure that a gap will not be left in the middle of the town such that it cannot continue to support local businesses, shops and cafes and those who have benefited from the courthouse being there. I will continue to engage with the Deputy on this.