Gay Mitchell
Question:1037 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make a statement on the concerns of persons (details supplied) regarding firearms policy and legislation. [21386/04]
View answerWednesday, 29 September 2004
Questions (854, 855)
John Perry
Question:1104 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make a statement on the correspondence he has received from the National Association of Regional Game Councils with regard to the Criminal Justice Bill 2004. [22063/04]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 1037 and 1104 together.
I am aware of the views of individuals and organisations, including those of the National Association of Regional Game Councils, in respect of proposed changes in legislation regarding the control of firearms. A number of submissions have been made to the dedicated address on my Department's website which was set up to facilitate a consultation process. However, I am conscious, in particular, of the overriding necessity to ensure that public safety and security are given priority in any review of policy and legislation regarding firearms. With this in mind, and taking into account a recent increase in violent crime involving firearms, I decided to bring forward at an early stage certain proposals for inclusion in the Criminal Justice Bill 2004. The Bill as published contains one of those proposals, to provide for the secure custody of firearms, at section 30. Other provisions will be brought forward in the form of amendments to the Bill on Committee Stage. In addition, any relevant recommendations arising from the tribunal of inquiry into the fatal shooting of Mr. JohnCarthy at Abbeylara, County Longford, on 20 April 2000 — the Barr tribunal — will be considered for inclusion in legislation either in the Criminal Justice Bill or a future firearms Bill, depending on the timing of the conclusion of the tribunal.