Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As Senator Leyden 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 the exercise of its functions. However, I am happy to advise Senator Leyden that the Government’s National Development Plan 2018-2027 includes a firm commitment for the development of new or refurbished courthouses, including the refurbishment of the courthouse at Roscommon. This is a good news story for the people of Roscommon.

The Courts Service has informed me that in 2018 it acquired full ownership of the historic Roscommon courthouse, which was formerly under the ownership of Roscommon County Council. The Courts Service intends to refurbish the courthouse and to use the space previously occupied by the council to provide additional facilities for users of the court.The OPW has conducted various surveys of the building since the Courts Service took possession of it and in common with many old buildings, the main areas of focus were the electrical works and the roof of the courthouse. Based on initial surveys, it was estimated earlier in the year that €350,000 would have to be put aside for electrical works. However, at a meeting with the OPW in October 2019, I understand mechanical and engineering experts indicated the cost of the electrical works alone would be at least €450,000. In addition, following the recent collapse of a ceiling in a jury room on the ground floor of the courthouse, investigations were carried out on the condition of the roof and it appears it too needs considerable work. In total, it appears it would be likely to cost at least €1 million to repair the roof and to carry out electrical works at the courthouse. At the same recent meeting, the proposal was put to the OPW about completing some small remedial works in order to keep the courthouse open until March 2020. I welcome this approach and I am hopeful no further issues will arise between now and then. If necessary, there is a contingency measure in place to facilitate sittings of the Circuit Court in Carrick-on-Shannon and sittings of the District Court in Castlerea as an interim measure. I acknowledge what Senator Leyden has said about seeking alternative and appropriate facilities in Roscommon town. I assure the Senator that is under way and I would be happy to keep him informed of progress on same.