Fianna Fáil TD for Donegal, Charlie McConalogue, has called on the Minister for Justice and Equality to ensure upgrade works are carried out at Carndonagh Courthouse as a matter of urgency.
Deputy McConalogue, who raised the matter in the Dáil this week, said there are tremendous concerns locally about how long it is taking to get the courthouse operational again.
He commented, “Carndonagh Courthouse was closed in March of this year for health and safety reasons and there was a structural report carried out subsequently by the courts service which was finished last week. There is tremendous concern locally at the pace of repairs in relation to this.
“Carndonagh has traditionally been the heart of justice administration in North Inishowen and the building is iconic in the town and important to local business.
“I am asking for a commitment from the Minister that the courthouse will indeed be repaired. I also am asking for an assurance that the work now will progress promptly so that the courthouse is brought back into action as quickly as possible.
“In reply the Minister acknowledged that works were being carried out, but said this was a matter for the courts service as an independent body. The Minister is seeking an update from the Court Service and I look forward to receiving this.
“I will continue to keep the pressure on the Minister and the Courts Service on the issue, now the report has been finished, works must be prioritised as a matter of urgency,” concluded Deputy McConalogue.