asked the Minister for Justice if he will review the restrictions imposed on the National Rifle and Pistol Association of Ireland with a view to enabling the association to participate in all Olympic shooting events.
Written Answers. - Olympic Shooting Events.
59.
Limerick East): The restrictions referred to derive from the general policy under which persons are not allowed, for security reasons, to possess in the State pistols, revolvers or heavy calibre rifles. I am advised by the Garda authorities that these controls continue to be necessary in the interests of public safety. It is unfortunate that this necessarily has a restrictive effect on members of the association, as indeed it has on others as well, but it is a matter of public safety and it would not be possible for me in present circumstances to justify a change.