840. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the current position regarding the former provision of court sittings in Tipperary Town; whether the Courts Service has considered the restoration of court sittings in the town; and the criteria which would have to be satisfied for their restoration. [64572/26]

841. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the capital investment undertaken at Carrick-on-Suir and Cashel courthouses in each of the past ten years; the works currently planned for each courthouse; whether either building has been assessed for refurbishment or redevelopment; and the estimated cost of identified works. [64571/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 840 and 841 together.

Under the Courts Service Act 1998, the provision and management of court accommodation is a matter for the Courts Service, which is independent in the exercise of its functions. To be of assistance to the Deputy, my officials have made enquiries with the Courts Service in relation to the information requested.

The Courts Service has advised that concerns regarding the infrastructure and suitability of court venues in District 21, including Carrick-on-Suir and Cashel, were raised in 2025. Engagement has since taken place with relevant stakeholders to identify potential impacts and operational considerations arising from any changes to court sittings in the district.

Carrick-on-Suir Courthouse and Cashel Courthouse are both owned by the local authority. Recent expenditure at both venues, in coordination with the OPW, has focused on minor repairs and maintenance as issues arise.

At present, there is no major capital redevelopment project under consideration for either courthouse. While the National Development Plan provides the overall framework for capital investment in the Courts Service estate, these courthouses are not identified as specific projects within it. Any future works at either venue would have to be considered in the context of the broader Courts Service estate, competing national priorities, available capital funding, and the required planning, business case and appraisal processes. I am advised that the Courts Service will continue to keep the condition and operational suitability of both venues under review.

As of 1 September 2025, all court sittings for Tipperary Town Court are being held in Thurles. To date, no suitable premises for a courthouse in Tipperary town has been found. I am informed that the District Court in Cashel currently sits three times per month, the District Court for Tipperary Town sits three times per month in Thurles, and the District Court in Carrick-on-Suir sits twice per month.