A historic courthouse in Co Wexford may be forced to close over fears for public safety.
Yesterday's sitting of New Ross District Court was adjourned by order of Judge Donnchadh Ó Buachalla, following consultations between local solicitors and the Courts Service over growing concerns that the building is structurally unsound. A small section has been closed off and it will be examined for dry rot.
An inspection of the courthouse is to be carried out by the Office of Public Works and a report is to be submitted to the court before the next scheduled district court sitting on December 10th. The problem with the building on Cross Street came to light three weeks ago, when a local musical group sought permission to hold a concert there. The group was informed by Wexford County Council that the building was unsafe. This prompted local solicitors to query the safety of holding court sittings in the building and the Courts Service sought a transfer to Enniscorthy while further investigations were carried out.
Local law firms have opposed this proposal as they are concerned that the temporary measure would have long-term implications.
A group of local solicitors has employed a firm of consultant architects from Waterford to inspect the building with the Office of Public Works and says it would like to have an input to any works that are proposed for the building.
The courthouse, which was built in the early 19th century, is a listed building and in the past six years has also been used as a music venue.