asked the Minister for Justice whether he has instructed the Gardaí not to enforce the law regarding illegal military organisations, the unlawful possession of arms, and the carrying and use of arms in public; and, if so, whether he will (a) inform the Dáil of the terms of such instructions; and (b) introduce proposals for legislation to give citizens generally the right to procure, possess, carry, and use arms.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Illegal Military Organisations.
I have not issued any such instructions.
If the Minister has not issued any instructions, are we to take it that the instructions to the Guards remain the same as they always were— that they are to enforce the law impartially?
I have nothing to add.
Will the Minister kindly answer the other portions of my question?
Mr. Murphy
Will the Deputy ask intelligent questions?
I should like to know from the Minister whether he will introduce proposals for legislation to give citizens who are non-members of military organisations the right to procure, possess and carry arms in public?
When I gave the Deputy an answer to the first part of the question, the second part does not arise and I have nothing further to add.
Is the Minister throwing the blame for the non-enforcement of the law on the local Guards? Are the Guards responsible, without any instruction from the Minister to ignore the matter, for the fact that in several parts of the country there are proclamations in the name of the so-called I.R.A.?
The Deputy is making a speech.
And it is intended to be a helpful speech.
The Deputy is trying to incite rebellion.
The laugh on the opposite benches is an empty laugh.
Is the Minister throwing the blame for the non-enforcement of the law on the Guards?
When the Deputy resumes his seat I shall reply.
I am resuming my seat— go ahead.
The Minister for Justice always saw to it that the law was enforced.
Question 52.
I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment, with the permission of the Chair.