The Ulster Unionist Party’s Newry & Armagh MLA Danny Kennedy has expressed his fears that the Department of Justice is poised to announce plans to close Armagh Court House as part of a review of the court estate.
Mr Kennedy said:
“I have recently received information which suggests that later this week the Department of Justice will announce the closure of Armagh Court House. There is no doubt in my mind that this would be a retrograde step, given the strategic importance of the building in Armagh City, the important service it provides to the region and the aesthetic value of the building itself.
“It is a landmark building in Armagh City centre and has been the subject of several terrorist attacks. Furthermore, it has also undergone major refurbishment and renovation in recent years at considerable cost.
“I will be demanding that the Minister urgently reviews any closure decision given the significant widespread political and community support for the retention of this iconic building and the service it provides in Armagh.”
Armagh Councillor Sam Nicholson endorsed his Party colleague’s comments and said:
“Armagh Court House is indeed a landmark building within the City and district. In addition to its striking appearance it also represents a significant physical symbol of law enforcement in the City and surrounding area.
“There is no doubt in my mind that in security, justice and legal terms, closing it would send out a very negative signal to the entire law abiding community. It would be a major blow to Armagh and the wider area if it were to be closed.”