asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware that the supply of game in the country is being seriously depleted owing to the enormous number of persons shooting same without gun licences, and some of whom come long distances in motor cars; if he will state what are the responsibilities of the Gárda Síochána with regard to the protection of game, and whether any further steps are to be taken to ensure close supervision in the matter.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - GAME PROTECTION.
I am not aware that the supply of game is being seriously depleted by persons shooting without authority. Since the Firearms Act, 1925, came into operation, the vast majority of the guns in this country are held under proper certificates issued by Superintendents of the Gárda Síochána. The responsibilities of the Gárda with regard to the protection of game are, in the main, confined to the enforcement of the Firearms Act, 1925, and the Regulations made thereunder. This they are doing and will continue to do. A Bill will, it is hoped, be shortly introduced to provide for the better protection of game throughout the Saorstát.
Is the Minister aware that a great many farmers are under the impression that having a game licence themselves they have authority to depute someone to kill vermin, rabbits, and soforth for them, as they are unable to do it themselves, and are they acting legally in doing so? There seems to be some doubt in their minds as to whether they have that power or not.
No. The licence, of course, only covers the person to whom it is issued.