James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy has raised important issues.

Ten or 12 years ago, my home town of Enniscorthy lost its courthouse and this had a serious impact on the town. I encourage the Courts Service to keep town centre courthouses open as this facilitates access.

On the access aspect, I participated in the National Disability Authority's conference on access to justice only yesterday and I echoed the support from the Minister, Deputy McEntee, as well as me and the rest of the Department for ensuring access by people with disabilities to justice. I pointed out that my sister has a disability and uses a wheelchair, although I am thankful she has never had the need to access the courts. I am very aware of the access issues for anybody with a disability, and it is something very much to the fore of my mind. It is something I will keep to the fore in the Department of Justice and Equality as well.

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