Flanagan ‘delighted’ with courts improvements

Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan has said he is “delighted” with the progress of improvements across Ireland’s courts system.

Mr Flanagan, speaking after he was presented with the annual report of the Courts Service of Ireland, said he looked forward to further improvements in courts infrastructure.

He said: “I was a solicitor in practise in Portlaoise for many years, so I know first-hand the importance of the Courts and the Courts Service to the State and I am delighted with the significant improvements happening across the courts system.

“The Government is committed to providing for an excellent courts system. The provision of first class court accommodation and resources is an important part of achieving this goal.

“Four new courthouses are being constructed around the country and three courthouses are being refurbished and extended.

“Earlier this month I had the pleasure of opening the new Drogheda Courthouse. I am looking forward to the completion by the end of this year of the other projects in Letterkenny, Limerick, Wexford, Cork, Mullingar and Waterford.”

Mr Flanagan also paid tribute to the outgoing Chief Justice of Ireland, Mrs Justice Susan Denham, who presented the report.

Addressing the top judge, he said: “I wish to thank you, Chief Justice, for the very significant court reforms that you presided over and I am confident that your legacy will continue for many years to come.

“You have been an inspiration to all of us seeking to enhance access to justice for all our citizens. During your tenure both as a judge of the Superior Courts and as Chief Justice you were instrumental in many pioneering reforms including the establishment of the Courts Service itself and of course the new Court of Appeal.”