Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the progress that has been made in respect of the renovation of Waterford Courthouse as announced earlier this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50554/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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In July, the Government announced an infrastructure stimulus package which includes seven courthouse projects. As the Deputy is 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 exercising its functions. However, in order to be of assistance to the Deputy, I have had enquiries made and the Courts Service has informed me that discussions are ongoing with the Office of Public Works and the National Development Finance Agency with a view to progressing these projects.

The Waterford project involves a refurbishment and extension of the existing courthouse. I am informed that the current position is that outline design work has been undertaken and discussions are ongoing with Waterford City Council in relation to the site.