Security issues at Portlaoise Courthouse raised with Minister

Laois TD Willie Aird called for a commitment on funding from government for new facility

The security challenges posed at Portlaoise Courthouse because the building is ‘no longer fit for purpose’ has been raised in the Dáil this week.

Fine Gael TD Willie Aird spoke on the need for funding to be identified to begin construction on a new courthouse during a debate on topical issues with Minister of State at the Department of Justice Colm Brophy.

“The key issue is when will funding be committed to deliver it,” Deputy Aird said, following the appointment of a design team to prepare an assessment and business case for the proposed development.

He said the need for a new courthouse went beyond the age of the existing building, citing security, accessibility, capacity and the working conditions of court staff and legal professionals.

Deputy Aird said the presence of the Midlands Prison created additional logistical and security challenges, with prisoners transported through the busy town centre to attend court.

“Every time a prisoner is brought from the Midlands Prison to court, there are logistical and security implications,” he said, adding that the movements required Garda and Prison Service resources and raised traffic and public safety concerns.

A new facility would allow secure prisoner-transfer arrangements to be incorporated into its design, while improving conditions for victims, witnesses and other court users, he said.

Laois County Council purchased a site at Kylekiproe in 2020 for the proposed courthouse. Deputy Aird said there was broad support for the development among the legal profession, the council and local traders.

“The site is secured, the need is established and there is strong local and professional support. What is required now is a funding commitment,” he said.

Minister Brophy told the Dáil that the Courts Service had received an initial funding allocation under the revised National Development Plan to advance courthouse projects in several locations, including Portlaoise. He said the Department had sought an update from the Courts Service.

Responding to Deputy Aird’s final appeal for the project to be prioritised, the Minister said, “I hear you very clearly.”

He added that the record of the debate would be heard and read by the Courts Service and said Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan was also aware of the concerns raised.

However, the Minister did not give a specific date for a funding commitment or the start of construction.

“The people of Laois have waited long enough. They deserve a courthouse that is safe, secure, accessible and fit for purpose,” Deputy Aird said.

Laois Senator Maria McCormack also raised the need for a new courthouse with Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan in the Seanad on Monday.