Roger T. Garland
Ceist:119 Mr. Garland asked the Minister for Justice if he has plans to revoke the Temporary Custody Order for firearms.
Written Answers. - Firearms Custody Order.
I presume that the Deputy is referring to the Firearms (Temporary Custody) Order, 1972 (S.I. No. 187 of 1972). This Order, which was valid for one month, required all persons residing in the State, in the interests of public safety, to surrender to the Gardaí all pistols, and rifles of a calibre greater than .22 inches (5.6mm) and ammunition for same. On the expiration of the Order the Gardaí adopted a general policy of not issuing firearm certificates for pistols, revolvers or rifles of a calibre in excess of .22 inches (5.6mm).
The Garda authorities have in certain limited cases issued certificates for the use of higher calibre rifles, i.e. those in excess of .22 inches (5.6mm), for the culling of deer. The circumstances under which such certificates are issued are currently under review.