Health and safety concerns at 148-year-old Killorglin Courthouse

Court sittings have been moved to Caherciveen due to immediate health and safety concerns at Killorglin, built in 1869.

The immediate works that are necessary 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.

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald said: “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.”

Answering a question in the Dáil, she added: “The Courts Service has advised that this is a very recent issue and that, in the short term, sittings are being moved to Caherciveen. This will allow for court hearings to continue and thus avoid creating a backlog of cases.

“It will also allow the Courts Service time to consider and consult as appropriate in regard to the medium term plan for Killorglin Courthouse and its business.”