237 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for Justice if plans for the upgrading of the courthouse at Washington Street, Cork, have been finalised; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4384/97]

It is planned to upgrade the courthouse at Washington Street, Cork in two phases. Phase I involves restoration of the exterior of building and will cost approximately £3.6 million and take about eighteen months to complete. Tenders have been received for this project and it is hoped to place a contract shortly.

Phase 2 of the project will involve the refurbishment of the interior of the building and is at the initial planning stage. It is not possible to provide a timescale for this phase at this early stage.