Firearms Licences.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 February 2004

Thursday, 19 February 2004

Questions (195)

Emmet Stagg

Question:

195 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if it is the policy of his Department to refuse to licence rifles above .270 calibre and not to licence hand guns; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the Garda authorities are refusing to issue licences for such guns; if his attention has further been drawn to the Supreme Court decision (details supplied) in this matter; if his attention has further been drawn to the continued seizure of firearms under the 1972 Temporary Custody Order, which Order expired and was not renewed after one month of the making of the Order; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5388/04]

Written answers

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I wish to inform the Deputy that in accordance with the Firearms Acts 1925 to 2000, the power to grant or refuse to grant a firearm certificate in this State is vested in the local superintendent of the Garda Síochána where the person resides. I have no statutory function in the matter. I am aware of the Supreme Court judgment referred to by the Deputy which dealt with this matter.

As I have previously indicated to the House, a review of Government policy in relation to firearms matters is ongoing with a view to developing legislation in this area. I hope to be in a position to bring proposals to Government in this regard shortly. The issue of the firearms that were surrendered on foot of the Firearms (Temporary Custody) Order 1972 will be considered in this context.