Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I wish to inform the Deputy that 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 have been informed that the Courts Service is currently in the process of a comprehensive review of all venues throughout the country and no court venue or office is excluded from this process.

I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that the Service, in common with all other public sector organisations, is obliged to ensure that resources are deployed to best effect to ensure continuity of service with reduced budgets and resources. Greater flexibility in the deployment of available resources will be critical in maintaining the delivery of front line court services. The Service has indicated that its policy in considering the future operational viability of any venue is to consult with local stakeholders and that would be the case should the future of the venues at Ballina, Westport and Swinford fall for consideration in the context of the current review.