Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 May 2004
203 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if it is anticipated that those accompanying President Bush on his visit here will be carrying firearms; the number and calibre of such firearms; if he will detail the circumstances in which the discharge of firearms is permitted; if any form of immunity or indemnification has been provided in respect of such persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16117/04]
View answerIt is not the policy and it would be contrary to the public interest to disclose details of the security arrangements relating to the forthcoming visit of the US President.
The importation of firearms is strictly governed by legislation. In particular, pursuant to the Firearms (Firearms Certificates for Non-Residents) Act 2000, the Minister is empowered to grant firearms certificates to non-residents who apply for a firearms certificate for purposes other than hunting or sporting purposes. Any decision to grant a firearms certificate is made in consultation with the Garda Síochána, which at all times retains responsibility for law enforcement matters generally and in the case of visiting VIPs.
All persons in this jurisdiction, including US security personnel and any actions they may take, will at all times be subject to the full application of national law and the Constitution. In particular, there are no plans to grant immunity or provide indemnification to such personnel.
