Now that funding has been allocated to build a new courthouse in Tralee, the Government must develop a plan for the future of the existing building.
That’s the view of Minister of State and Independent TD Michael Healy-Rae.
He was speaking after the Department of Justice confirmed it has been allocated funding to begin construction of a new courthouse in Tralee.
The department has published its Sectoral Investment Plan for 2026-2030, as part of the revised National Development Plan.
In this plan, Minister Jim O’Callaghan says funding was secured to commence work on a new Courthouse in Tralee, but it does not commit to any specific amounts or timelines.
In 2022, Kerry County Councillors voted to sell a 0.2-acre site at the Island of Geese to the Courts Service for a new courthouse for the town.
Minister of State Michael Healy-Rae has welcomed the confirmation that funding has been secured, saying it’s a major investment in Kerry and in the future of Tralee.
The Kerry TD also says that he’s aware that the condition and future use of the existing courthouse on Ashe Street is a real worry for people.
He says it’s a landmark building and a significant part of the town’s heritage.
Minister of State Healy-Rae says a clear plan for the old building must be developed immediately; he adds that this plan should protect the current building, respect its history, and ensure it remains a valuable asset for the town.
