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Family-courts complex takes step forward

The Courts Service says that plans to build a new family-courts complex in Dublin have moved a step forward.

Last week, the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA) published a contract notice to begin the first stage of the Public Private Partnership (PPP) procurement process, the pre-qualification and shortlisting of potential bidders.

Planning permission was granted in April for the purpose-built complex at Hammond Lane in Dublin 7.

Six-storey building

The complex will replace what the Courts Service describes as “the present inadequate facilities” at Dolphin House, Phoenix House, and Chancery Street courthouse.

The six-storey over-basement building will include 19 courtrooms, consultation spaces, staff and judicial accommodation, a variety of public waiting areas, space for mediation and domestic-violence support services, accommodation for legal practitioners, and custody facilities.

Describing the latest development as “a significant milestone”, the Minister for Justice Helen McEntee said that it had brought “a better, more empathetic, and child-centred family-justice system” one step closer.

Momentum

Angela Denning (Chief Executive Officer of the Courts Service) said: “There has been a determined focus by the Courts Service going back many years to bring this important project to fruition.

“We will keep the momentum going and look forward to working with the Office of Public Works and the NDFA to deliver this much-needed facility as quickly as possible.”

It is anticipated that the complex will be completed during 2028.