John Brassil (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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95. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality her plans to allow monthly Killorglin court services to take place at Kerry County Council buildings, Library Place, Killorglin, County Kerry, while refurbishment works take place at the current courthouse; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15310/17]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy 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 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, following professional inspections, immediate health and safety issues in relation to Killorglin Courthouse were highlighted and therefore court hearings could not continue there in the short term. The necessary work include a full rewiring of the building, the installation of emergency lighting and fire alarms, as well as repairs to the raised floor area in the courtroom. In addition consideration needs to be given to the extent and cost of any further works required to bring the courthouse up to modern standards.

The Courts Service has advised that this is a recent issue and that, in the short term, sittings are being moved to Cahersiveen. This will allow for court hearings to continue and thus avoid creating a backlog of cases. Currently the Courts Service has no plans to commence court sittings in the County Council buildings, Library Place, Killorglin. The Courts Service intends to consult with local court users as to the medium/long term plan for Killorglin Courthouse and its business, including consideration of available alternative venues. It is expected that these consultations will commence in the near future.