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Question

82. Deputy Hildegarde Naughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the status of efforts by the Office of Public Works to identify a site for the development of a new courthouse in Galway city; the criteria being applied in searching for such a site; and the next steps towards the development of a new courts facility in Galway city. [8248/17]

94. Deputy Hildegarde Naughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the status of efforts by the Courts Service to develop a new courthouse in Galway city; if funding has been allocated for this purpose; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8247/17]

83. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding identifying sites for a project (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8386/17]

109. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the progress which has been made by her Department in working with the Office of Public Works to secure a site and begin planning for a new courthouse in Portlaoise. [8645/17]

Answer

Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Frances Fitzgerald): I propose to take Questions Nos. 83 and 109 together.
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 the they have the objective of building a new and modern courthouse with all necessary court facilities in Portlaoise. The Courts Service has been trying to acquire a suitable site for some time. Two potential sites have been identified and both are currently being assessed by the OPW as to their suitability. Progress with regard to the development of a new courthouse will be dependent on the availability of funding.