Ivor Callely
Ceist:304 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Justice the number of firearms held by members of the Garda Síochána. [21948/96]
Written Answers. - Garda Firearms.
Ivor Callely
Ceist:305 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Justice the training and standards given to members of the Garda Síochana in respect of the use of firearms; the submissions, if any, he has received from the Garda in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21949/96]
Ivor Callely
Ceist:306 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Justice the procedures in place for a member of the Garda Síochána to obtain a firearm while on duty; if such a firearm is returned while the Garda is not on active duty; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21950/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 304, 305 and 306 together.
The detailed deployment of Garda personnel and resources is a matter for the Garda authorities. They have expressed concern about providing details of the procedures to obtain firearms and the number of firearms held by members of the Force, and I share that concern on the grounds of security and in the interests of crime prevention generally. However, they have informed me that the question of firearms training in the Garda Síochána was examined in 1990 and the training and standard of proficiencies required for each firearm used by the force was set out at that time. In addition, Garda management continue to review the training of members of the Force in the use of firearms as the need arises.
I understand that gardaí undergo a basic firearms training course as part of their overall training while at the Garda College. They are trained in the use and handling of firearms and must attain a specific standard of proficiency.
The Garda authorities have informed me that each Garda division has a panel of members authorised to carry firearms on duty. Selected members are trained in the use and handling of specialist weapons. These members are required to attain a specified level of proficiency and are also required to attend refresher firearms training courses on a regular basis.