Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 Apr 1995

Vol. 451 No. 8

Written Answers. - Longford Courthouse.

Michael McDowell

Question:

189 Mr. M. McDowell asked the Minister for Justice whether she has made a decision in relation to Longford Courthouse; the steps, if any, she has taken to ensure that the entire Courthouse is restored to county council occupancy and courthouse use; the policy, if any, she has in relation to the conservation and preservation of historical and architectural court buildings of the 18 and 19 century; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7224/95]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

I have decided to proceed to refurbish the courthouse by retaining the elements of architectural merit including the facade and rebuilding on the remainder of the site.

I am very conscious of the need to conserve and preserve court buildings which are recognised as being of such historical and architectural merit as to merit the public expenditure involved and this is one of the factors I take into account when deciding courthouse accommodation.