Fine Gael Deputy for Longford-Westmeath, James Bannon, has welcomed the announcement that Longford District Court has been chosen as the new centralised court for custody cases in counties Longford and Westmeath.
Justice Minister Alan Shatter has confirmed that the move is being considered by the members of a working group and will probably go ahead in the near future.
“This measure has been identified as a way to reduce costs and achieved greater efficiencies in the district courts, resulting in less associated Garda or prison escort costs and easing any potential security concerns in courthouses without holding facilities such as Longford Court.
“I was pleased to hear Minister Shatter confirm that a consultation process is underway with a range of local stakeholders, which should ensure that any issues relating to the move are considered carefully. He also confirmed that no further changes are due to services at Athlone Court. Barring any significant issues, this initiative should go ahead in the near future, making Longford the new centre for custody cases in Longford and Westmeath.”
