Local councillor opposes closure of courthouse in Tipperary

Tipperary County Councillor Declan Burgess has released a statement in response to the news regarding the closure of Cashel Courthouse.

The statement released says: "I am deeply shocked and disappointed by recent reports indicating the planned closure of Cashel Courthouse this autumn. I am firmly opposed to the removal of services from this facility and their relocation to Clonmel.

"This decision is a serious mistake. It represents a short-sighted move to centralise services without considering the negative impact on Cashel and its surrounding communities.

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"I have urgently contacted the Court Services and have also made formal representations to the Minister for Justice, Jim O’Callaghan.

"Rather than closing the courthouse, a small investment—such as upgrading the public toilet facilities—would be far more constructive and cost-effective.

"I totally oppose this approach and will do my best to ensure we keep our historic courthouse open and operational for the people it serves."

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The councillor who is from Cashel also released a further update on Cashel Courthouse today:

"This is a worrying situation if decisions like this can be made without any process. I have been informed that the Courts Service will now engage in consultation with all stakeholders.

"This would include legal practitioners, victim groups, and elected representatives. This must happen before anything escalates.

"I will support this process and ensure steps are taken to keep Cashel Courthouse operational for the people it serves. Justice must be made accessible to all citizens. Centralising the services would be a mistake."