Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)

On behalf of the Minister, Deputy O'Callaghan, I thank the Senator for raising this important matter. The Minister has advised that Donegal courthouse will be closed temporarily as a result of health and safety concerns. Work has been ongoing with the Office of Public Works in order to determine the required works and the associated costs. The main and most serious safety issues relate to the entrances for both the public and courthouse users and the judge. Both of the ceilings in the public entrance porch have partially collapsed.

In November 2023, the OPW provided a costing for the repair of the flat roofs at the courthouse. These works were approved by the Courts Service and communicated to the OPW. However, the OPW subsequently advised that the existing roof would also need to be replaced due to its condition. Based on that advice, the OPW was asked to provide a costing for the repairs required for the roof in its entirety, which was forwarded to the Courts Service in August 2025. A further on-site meeting with the OPW took place on 2 September 2025. During those discussions, it became apparent that further investigative works would be necessary to determine if any additional structural and associated works were required. The OPW has indicated that opening-up works will be required to facilitate the completion of a structural survey of the building.

The Courts Service was further advised about the concerns the OPW had regarding the continued use of the building in its current state. The Minister is advised that the OPW has organised for a full building conditions survey to be carried out, including a mechanical and electrical conditions survey. The OPW is awaiting a timeline and costing for this survey. The outcome of the survey will inform the next steps in relation to the courthouse in Donegal. The regional office intends to explore whether there are any suitable temporary venues within Donegal town.