Press Releases
17/12/2007
Fermoy Courthouse opened in €7 million Civic Centre
The Minister for Justice, Equality, and Law Reform, Mr. Brian Lenihan TD, will officially open the refurbished courthouse in Fermoy today, Monday December 17th 2007 at 12.00 noon. The Board of the Courts Service will be represented by His Honour Judge Patrick Moran who will preside over the event.
The courthouse, which has stood in Fermoy since 1808, has been refurbished to provide greatly improved facilities for the public. Forming part of the town's dedicated civic complex, the improved building now provides two courtrooms, a family law suite and a victim support room. This project respects and conserves the integrity of the existing structure, while meeting the 21st century requirements for security, universal access and fire safety.
The New Facilities:
The new universally accessible building provides more accommodation and facilities than were previously available and includes:
Secure car parking and cell accommodation included in the extended building will further enhance the different uses of the building. This will allow much more District and Circuit courts business to be conducted in Fermoy. The new facility provides for the privacy, comfort and dignity which court users expect and deserve in a modern courthouse.
Conservation
The refurbishment process has respected and retained the inherent character, quality and presence of the 200 year-old building. The porch has been removed to reveal the original Gibbs-designed door surround, and timber sash windows and doors have been conserved.
The new parts of the complex, used by the civic authorities, have been designed to reflect the contemporary image of a modern 21st century public service. The refurbished building shows a clear distinction, one which is indicative of a respect for tradition and a commitment to modernisation.
The courthouse now stands as an important and restored part of the architectural and historical heritage of Fermoy.
History
Fermoy courthouse was built by John Anderson and Archibald Grubb and erected at the east end of the town in 1808. Though the building has changed much over the past 200 years, many features remain from earlier times. The courtroom furniture is believed to be original and the viewing gallery is particularly distinct. The double-height courthouse's ceilings are formed of panelled, sheeted timber.