asked the Minister for External Affairs whether he has made representations to the British Government to urge a substantial reduction in the number of licensed guns in Northern Ireland; and, if not, if he will now make such representations.
13.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Northern Ireland Gun Licences.
12.
asked the Minister for External Affairs if he has made any representations to the British Government about the growth of gun clubs in the Six Counties.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 12 and 13 together. Our views on this matter were conveyed to the British Government on a number of occasions.
Can the Minister say what response was given? I take it they did not remain silent?
There are diplomatic channels for conveying our opinions. I am sure the House is aware that the Taoiseach referred on last Saturday week to the existence of these rifle clubs and he labelled it a political mistake to have them. As I say, it has been communicated to them through the normal channels of communication between Governments.
With what response?
It would not be normal to say what the response was at any particular meeting but Deputies will be aware that on the Tuesday following the Taoiseach's statement the Stormont Government announced in Stormont that all existing arms certificates would be re-examined and that special attention would be paid to certificates covering more than one weapon. It was indicated at that time that farmers, fowlers and members of rifle clubs who had guns had them legitimately. If you regard that as response—but it would not be normal——
There was a response from John Taylor.
Is the Minister satisfied with that decision?
I am not satisfied. No Deputy could be satisfied with the existence of legal guns in such large numbers in the hands of these people in the North of Ireland, nor with the existence of gun clubs made up of former B Specials. I do not think anybody could be satisfied with that situation.
Does the Minister intend to make further representations?
I do.
Through normal diplomatic channels?
I do not know of any abnormal diplomatic channels.
We do.