Optimism that Cork town’s historic courthouse could be restored after Heritage Trust visit

After being learning of locals' determination to reverse the decay of the courthouse and the rare republican graffiti etched on the interior walls of its bridewell through an by The Corkman, IHT chairman Ger Aherne, a Cork native who is a retired Defence Forces Brigadier General, and CEO Ann O'Donoghue recently came to inspect the building.

The Irish Heritage Trust representatives were shown around the courthouse and the town by members of the Courthouse Restoration Committee, who said they were very happy with how the visitors listened to their concerns about the current state of the building.

Kanturk Courthouse Restoration Committee members are now hoping the IHT may decide to acquire the property from the Courts Service and take over its management to ensure the building and its artefacts will be secured for future generations.

The IHT will now hold meetings regarding the courthouse, with Heritage Minister Malcolm Noonan potentially having some involvement.

Irish Heritage Trust properties include Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens, Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens in Wexford and Strokestown Park House & National Famine Museum in Roscommon.