249 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for Justice whether the plans by Cork Corporation for the refurbishment of the courthouse at Washington Street, Cork, had been approved by her Department; if so, the extent of the work involved; the cost involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18489/96]

The refurbishment works proposed for the courthouse at Washington Street, Cork will be undertaken in two phases. Phase one comprises mainly of exterior stonework repairs. Tenders have been received for these works and are at present being considered by both my Department and the Department of Finance.

It is planned that the second phase which comprises major interior refurbishment will commence on completion of the phase one works. The second phase is at the initial planning/design stage.

The overall cost of the works will be in the region of £6 million.