Denis Naughten TD has expressed disappointment at the confirmation today (Tuesday) that Boyle Courthouse is to close – the fifth court sitting to be lost in the county in recent years.

The decision has been made by the Courts Service and will result in Boyle District Court being amalgamated with the court sitting in Carrick-on-Shannon while the Circuit Court sittings held in Boyle will be moved to Roscommon Town.

“This is disappointing news and will be a blow to the town of Boyle, particularly for businesses who benefit as a result of those attending the various court sittings,” stated Denis Naughten.

“It is also disappointing from the point of view that this is the fourth court sitting to be lost in County Roscommon following the earlier decisions of the Courts Service to end court sittings in Ballyforan, Rooskey, Ballyfarnon and Elphin.”

The existing courthouse in Boyle dates back to 1830 but in 2008 the Courts Service stated that it did not meet the modern needs of a courthouse and it advertised seeking either a site for a new courthouse or for a courthouse on a design, build and lease or purchase basis.

“Surely facilities such as King House or other premises in the town could continue to provide suitable facilities rather than having to move the courts from Boyle altogether,” stated Denis Naughten.

“It is disappointing that the Courts Service has now abandoned its plan to relocate the courthouse within the town and this is undoubtedly a blow to local businesses and to those who will now have to travel to Carrick-on-Shannon and Roscommon Town for court hearings.”