A report from the Garda Commissioner on the annual review of the operation
of the Firearms Acts 1925 to 2009 has today been laid before each House of
the Oireachtas, as required by Section 31 of the Criminal Justice
(Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009.
This is the 4th such report and covers the year 2013.
The Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald, T.D, said “I
welcome the Report which sets out key information in relation to firearms
licensing in this jurisdiction. I expect to shortly receive and consider
the report of the joint Departmental/Garda Síochána Working Group on
Firearms licensing. When I have considered that report I will decide what
further action is necessary in relation to the firearms licensing system.
This will include consultation with a wide variety of relevant stakeholders
before any changes are finalised in relation to proposals for change to the
firearms licensing system”.
Some of the key issues set out in the Report are as follows:-
· A total of 168,597 firearms certificates were in force at the end of
2013
· An additional 3,121 non-resident firearms certificates were granted
and issued to persons not ordinarily resident in the state in 2013
· 4 new shooting ranges were authorised by the relevant local Garda
Superintendent during 2013
· The number of shooting ranges authorised at the end of 2013 was 16
· The number of rifle and pistol clubs authorised at the end of 2013
was 20, which is the same number that were authorised at the end of 2012
ENDS.Note for Editors
Section 31 of the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009
inserted a new Section 3E into the Firearms Act 1925. Section 3E provides:
“The Commissioner shall conduct an annual review of the operation of the
Firearms Act 1925 to 2009 and shall submit a report to the Minister
specifying the number and classes of certificates and authorisations
issued under the Acts. The Minister shall lay a copy of such report
before each house of the Oireachtas.”
