asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware that a person (name supplied) has been the holder of a firearm certificate for a .300 single shot rook rifle since 1953; and that the licence holder has an exemplary character; if so, why he has now been refused a certificate for the current year; and why the rifle has been seized by the Garda.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Firearm Certificate.
24.
The discretion to grant firearm certificates is vested by law in the local Superintendents of the Garda Síochána.
The local superintendent was not prepared to grant a certificate to the person in question for the current year and I am satisfied that his decision was taken in the bona fide exercise of his discretion.
The owner of the rifle is free to dispose of it by sale or otherwise in accordance with the Firearms Acts.