Parliamentary Questions

.243

gunny123 wrote: »

I heard he had closed up shop, not surprised tbh.

The main shop is closed up,and whatever was left was crammed into the strong room at the firing range across in the industrial estate

Sparks

Tuesday, 12 June 2018

Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
1332. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her views on a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24990/18]

Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)

The Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Water Birds (AEWA) was developed under the UN Convention on Migratory Species. Ireland signed up to the Agreement in 2003. The agreement includes a commitment that “Parties shall endeavour to phase out the use of the "ammunition referred in Question" for hunting in wetlands as soon as possible in accordance with self-imposed and published timetables.”

My Department is aware that the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has, at the request of the European Commission, prepared a report proposing a restriction on the types of shooting within a wetland or where spent ammunition would land within a wetland. It is expected that the ECHA will forward its proposals to the Commission by mid-2018 for consideration. My Department has no specific proposals in relation to such ammunition at present and will await the final proposals from the European Commission before deciding in consultation with the various hunting organisations on any course of action which may be necessary.

I would point out that any restriction on the use of such ammunition over wetlands should not impact unduly on licensed deer hunters as wetlands are not the natural habitat of deer and it is rare for deer to be hunted over them.

At some point people are going to realise asking a healy-rae to represent you is like kicking yourself in the bollocks. It's awkward, it's painful and frankly, anyone else in the world would be able to do the job better.

grassroot1

It's hoped loss of lead over wetlands would not unduly affect deer hunters
Ya that about says it all
Not an idea what they are talking about

Grizzly 45

Reckon Jackie HR went and combined a question on both JHP rifle ammo and lead shot,and didnt explain it properly in his question to the minister.

And here is where you will find the ministers stock answer,verbatim on wildfowl.:rolleyes:
/
www.researchgate.net/publication/227940841_Limitations_of_European_Union_Policy_and_Law_for_Regulating_Use_of_Lead_Shot_and_Sinkers_Comparisons_with_North_American_Regulation

Sparks

Tuesday, 19 June 2018

Micheal Martin (Leader of the Opposition; Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
237. To ask the Tiste and Minister for Justice and Equality his views on the number of unlicensed guns in circulation; the actions being taken to address the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26296/18]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)

I wish to advise the Deputy that An Garda Sh tackles the issue of illegal firearms on an ongoing basis through a range of targeted and intelligence based operations, often disrupting and preventing incidents, as well as detecting and prosecuting those involved. Heavy penalties are already provided in our criminal legislation for weapons offences, including mandatory minimum penalties for certain firearms offences. A report from the Garda Commissioner has been sought on this matter and I will write further to the Deputy when this is to hand.

In relation to firearms which have been licensed and for which a license is not renewed, I am advised that An Garda Sh conduct a central monthly audit which is disseminated to Garda Divisions and any unusual trends will cause an alert and notification to be issued as and where appropriate. In addition, there is engagement by Garda Headquarters with officers engaged in the firearms licensing process throughout the jurisdiction with a particular focus on ensuring a proactive approach in managing renewals of any firearms certificates outstanding for their respective areas of responsibility.

grassroot1

They are excellent with figures the guards hope the figures for firearms are as accurate as the breathtests.
Very interesting the way the question was phrased unlicenced rather than illegally held firearms

Nekarsulm

grassroot1 wrote: »

They are excellent with figures the guards hope the figures for firearms are as accurate as the breathtests.
Very interesting the way the question was phrased unlicenced rather than illegally held firearms

Yeah, you'd wonder if he was driving at guns that have never been licenced, found under the floorboards type stuff from the 1920's.
Who was the Americian president who rambled on about "unknown unknowns" and "known unknowns"?

Cass

grassroot1 wrote: »

They are excellent with figures the guards hope the figures for firearms are as accurate as the breathtests.

Don't hold your breath, pun intended. And not for the first time.

Sparks

Tuesday, 26 June 2018

SeFleming (Laois, Fianna Fail)
267. To ask the Tiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of firearms recovered in each of the years 2013 to 2017 and to date in 2018, by rifles, handguns, shotguns and other firearms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28064/18]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)

A report from the Garda Commissioner has been sought in relation to the number of firearms, by type, recovered in each of the years 2013 to 2017 and to date in 2018

I will write to the Deputy with a full reply when the information sought has been received.

Wednesday, 27 June 2018

Sean Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail)
155. To ask the Tainste and Minister for Justice and Equality if a family member or a relation can act as a character referee in respect of a person making a request for a licence for a firearm; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28092/18]

David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)

Section 4 of the Firearms Act 1925, as amended, provides the conditions to be satisfied prior to an issuing person granting a firearm certificate. Further information may be sought from an applicant by an issuing person, including the names and addresses of two referees who may be contacted to attest to the applicant's character, under Section 4(3) of the Act.

I am advised by An Garda Siochana that it is important to ensure that referees have an adequate knowledge of the applicant. In that regard, regular contact, whether in a professional, business or social context, with an applicant for a period of at least five years is an example of adequate knowledge of the applicant. I am also advised that referees need not have any knowledge of firearms or shooting sports, but they should be in a position to comment on the applicant’s general character and background and an issuing person may consider that a referee should be over 18 years of age. Accordingly, An Garda Siochana have confirmed that a family member or relation would be considered suitable to act as a referee in respect of a person making an application for a firearms certificate.

Sparks

A commencement matter rather than a PQ but relevant to us.

Tuesday, 10 July 2018

10:30 am
Colette Kelleher (Independent)
I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Catherine Byrne, who has been sent into the Seanad to do the work of other people but I appreciate her being here.

This matter concerns the lack of management, protection and development of the Gearagh conservation site in County Cork and the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht's lack of leadership and action about this. The Gearagh national nature reserve on the River Lee in County Cork is a globally unique site of international importance, both for its primeval river forest and its wintering wildfowl. As a priority Natura 2000 site under the EU Habitats Directive, it has several different forms of legislation theoretically protecting it. It is a special area of conservation, SAC, a special protected area, SPA, a world Ramsar site, a biogenetic reserve and part of the Lee Valley natural heritage area.

Despite this raft of legislation and protections, the fact that it is the property of the State, under the control of the semi-State body, the ESB, means it is without any effective management plan. As a consequence, this State-led neglect has prevented the local community from developing the area as a significant recreational, educational and eco-tourism destination.

The Gearagh is a designated SAC to primarily protect its alluvial woodland. However, the lack of good water management in the river catchment upstream from the forest, as required under Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive, is causing the site’s islands to disintegrate. This is flying in the face of the intended EU protection enshrined under Article 6(2). The SPA status was originally designated on the site due to the thousands of wintering wildfowl that used the area. Today, however, the numbers of wintering birds are much reduced. Each winter the ESB allows access to the protected area by a local gun club. The hunting had been so substantial that it was claimed that the carcasses of the birds were ferried out in wheelbarrows. These are the very birds which are meant to be protected.

Although the site featured as a centre page spread in Cork County Council’s biodiversity action plan, not a single sign has been erected directing the public to the nature reserve, nor has any money been used to promote the Gearagh as a tourist site. One could pass the entrance to the site without noticing it. Nobody would see that it is such a special area and understand it is on a par with the Burren.

Having won the Young Scientist Competition in 1983 and the Ford European Conservation Awards in 1987 for a sustainable management plan to protect and develop the Gearagh, both as Western Europe’s last primeval river forest and as an international wetland wildfowl reserve, attempts by the local community to engage with the ESB and the Department in order to implement such a plan have been met with short-sighted dismissal. It is disappointing the Minister did not attend to take this matter today. That does not bode well for this issue being taking seriously. The apparent disregard of both the Department and the ESB is extremely disappointing. It would lead one to wonder whether the Government is true to its commitments to its environmental protection obligations at local and national level, as well as at European level where its obligations are enshrined under EU law.

What is the Minister’s opinion on the reports of violations by the ESB of Ireland’s environmental protection commitments in the Gearagh site under the EU Habitats Directive and other legally-binding principles? Why does the Department not appear to be active in empowering the local community to develop this spectacular site, as a major ecotourism boost for the region, creating jobs, protecting the environment and boosting the poor environmental image of the ESB and the Department? Why is the EU Habitats Directive not being actively enforced in the site by prohibiting the gun clubs and the sufficient and level-handed restoration of the Gearagh’s forest? Will the Minister establish an all-inclusive management plan, a plan that protects the Gearagh and allows the local community develop the site in a sustainable way?

During a recent Seanad debate on our oceans, we heard good and successful examples of community-led management plans about marine protected areas in Scotland by Dr. Ruth Brennan of Trinity College Dublin, which could act as a template for the Gearagh.

Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
I am taking this matter on behalf of the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Josepha Madigan.

Ireland, like all EU member states, is bound by the requirements of the Habitats Directive and the Birds Directive. They are the cornerstone of the EU’s nature conservation policy and establish the EU wide Natura 2000 ecological network of protected areas. These directives aim to ensure the protection of habitats and species which have been selected for conservation within special areas of conservation and special protection areas.These directives have been transposed into national law by the European Communities (Birds and Natural habitats) Regulations 2011, the Wildlife Acts and the Planning Acts. In Ireland, 439 sites have been selected for conservation as special areas of conservation while 154 sites have been selected for conservation as special protection areas.

The Gearagh, which is located approximately 2 km south-west of Macroom, County Cork, comprises a stretch of the River Lee that was dammed in the 1950s as part of a hydroelectric scheme. According to the site synopsis, the principal habitat is a shallow lake or reservoir which is fringed by wet woodland, scrub and grassland that is prone to flooding. Alluvial forest occurs on islands within the site. The Gearagh was selected for conservation as a special area of conservation in March 1997. It was also designated as a special protected area in 1996. The site is a statutory nature reserve in the ownership of the ESB. The qualifying interests of the special area of conservation site are floating river vegetation, old oak woodlands, alluvial forests and the otter. Despite about half the original area having been destroyed, the Gearagh still represents the only extensive alluvial woodland in Ireland, Great Britain or west of the River Rhine in Europe.

In response to a complaint lodged with the European Commission and the subsequent pilot infringement case relating to concerns over apparent erosion on the River Lee downstream of Toons Bridge at the western extent of the Gearagh special area of conservation where there is an extensive area of alluvial woodland, the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government convened a working group of key stakeholders for the Gearagh site in 2016, comprising representatives from that Department, the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Cork County Council and the ESB. The group agreed that a scoping exercise was required to identify damage that appeared to be occurring within the alluvial woodland of the Gearagh. The ESB carried out this exercise and the report of the scoping exercise was published in 2017. It proposed a number of recommendations, including monitoring surveying and studies on the site to establish baseline data and for the development of a management plan. Work commenced on the implementation of these recommendations in November 2017. To date, terrestrial laser scanning of the main channel flowing through the Gearagh site has been completed. Locations for a hydrometric gauge and depth loggers have been identified with installation due for completion by the end of this summer.

The carrying out of these studies is to establish a baseline of robust data for the area. It is expected that the period of monitoring will be for a minimum of two years. The aim is to define the presence or absence of any erosive or other abnormal changes within the alluvial woodland of the Gearagh. If no such impacts are evident, it can be concluded that the objective of the conservation of the alluvial woodland within the area is being achieved and no further measures will be necessary. If evidence of erosive impacts is found, it is intended that a management plan will be developed with targeted physical restoration measures aimed at reducing the risk to the integrity and functioning of the alluvial woodland within the special area of conservation.

Based on ongoing consultation between the ESB and the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, further scientific studies are planned for the eastern section of the Gearagh site. These will encompass monthly bird surveys, botanical studies around the periphery of the reservoir and drone photography of the reservoir substrate revealed during low water. These studies are at the scoping and procurement stage.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
As the Minister of State dealing with this matter is not the line Minister, she probably will not have the answers Senator Kelleher would like to extract.

Colette Kelleher (Independent)
The Minister of State did her best in coming here today but the Minister who is responsible needs to be here. Her failure to attend marks the disappointing and rather hopeless response to the Commencement matter. The Gearagh national nature reserve on the River Lee is a unique site of international importance both for its primaeval river forest and its wintering wildfowl. The Department can carry out all the bird surveys it likes but letting a gun club loose on the site is hardly the way to protect birds.

The ESB, the current owner of the Gearagh site, is flying in the face of EU laws providing for the protection and conservation of the Gearagh site as part of the Natura 2000 network. The Minister of State spoke about stakeholders but failed to mention the local community. I know every inch of the Gearagh. I know where Toons Bridge is, where the entrance is and where the islands are - these beautiful and amazing islands that are unique to Ireland - yet we are getting this very poor response, not from the Minister of State, but from the line Minister. While I am extremely disappointed, I am encouraged to pursue this matter further. I do not understand the hesitation to enforce the ESB's respect for the site and its obligations under the EU habitats directive. If the Minister and Government are to be true to their responsibilities at national and EU level, surely they will establish an effective management plan for the area. I would like the Minister to act with urgency and I hope she will look into this matter more seriously. I intend to follow through on this and make sure she gives it the attention it deserves and requires.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Obviously, Senator Kelleher is very passionate about this. Could the Minister of State arrange a meeting between Senator Kelleher and the line Minister?

Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
I, again, thank Senator Kelleher and acknowledge some of the difficulties she has raised that have not been addressed in the response. I apologise to the Senator for the Minister not being here. In saying that, I will convey to the Minister some the issues she raised, specifically the use of the site by a local gun club, the absence of signage and the lack of proper consultation with the local community. As the Senator stated, there is considerable interest in this issue and people are concerned about it.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
I suggest the Minister of State ask the line Minister to meet Senator Kelleher for a few minutes before the recess?

Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
I will contact the Minister.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Senator Kelleher is passionate about the issue and knows the area inside out in the same way I know the Sheep's Head peninsula.

Colette Kelleher (Independent)
I would appreciate if the Minister of State made a commitment to arrange a meeting with the Minister.

Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
I will commit to telephoning the Minister when I return to my office.

Colette Kelleher (Independent)
I would appreciate that.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
I hope a meeting will be arranged. If not, I will deal with the matter after the recess. The next topic is in the name of Senator Kieran O'Donnell.

Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
I am taking all of the Commencement matters.

Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
I noticed that. The Minister of State has been given a poisoned chalice.

Sparks

Tuesday, 10 July 2018

Tommy Broughan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)

975. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if a 2018-2019 hare coursing licence will be refused and all hare hunting and shooting stopped in view of warnings from wildlife experts (details supplied) that Irish hare numbers have declined significantly; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30825/18]

Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)

EU Directive 92/43/EEC (the Habitats Directive) requires Ireland to make a detailed report every six years on the conservation status of all listed species, including the hare. Ireland’s most recent report in 2013 included a comprehensive assessment of the range, population status, habitat and threats for the Irish hare. The report can be downloaded at LINK. The next report is due in 2019.

The 2013 report stated that the Hare is found throughout the country from coastal habitats to upland heath and bog. The Hare is widespread and common in Ireland with a broad habitat niche. None of the identified threats are considered likely to impact on its conservation status in the foreseeable future and the Overall Conservation Status was assessed as Favourable. My Department is not aware of any expert reports which indicate a national decline in the population of hares.

In addition to the reporting requirements of the EU Habitats Directive, data on the distribution of the hare is being collected continuously by the National Biodiversity Data Centre and the recent Atlas of Mammals in Ireland 2010-2015 provided a summary of the species’ range, demonstrating that it remains widespread across the country.

My Department recently commissioned a new assessment of the status of hare’s population in Ireland. The survey work to inform this population assessment has already begun with the main survey work to occur over the 2018/19 winter period. The final report is due in mid-2019.

In relation to hare coursing meetings, the recent 2017/18 hare coursing season finished at the end of February last. All reports in relation to the season will be considered in the context of licenses for the 2018/19 coursing season.

Cass

I don't even know anyone that shoots Hares anymore. They are plentiful in pretty much every permission i have which stretches across the borders of Laois/Offaly and Tipp.

What i do see is a drop in rabbits in the same areas, and i know this is better suited to the hunting forum, but given the previously highlighted issues regarding the NPWS on other threads, it's budget (or lack thereof), the low number of rangers, etc. i wonder how thorough the report is.

Not calling into question the NPWS' work, just their ability to properly and repeatedly do the leg work required. Laois, Offaly, Tipp, and i believe Carlow (but not 100% on that) have not a ranger in almost two years. All resources are being directed to areas where Deer poaching is at its worst.

Grizzly 45

I shoot them. They are a delicacy and some of the prized game animals. Pay stupid money for hare in restaurants in Europe.

Birdnuts

Grizzly 45 wrote: »

I shoot them. They are a delicacy and some of the prized game animals. Pay stupid money for hare in restaurants in Europe.

I have eaten them too as part of a "hunters" grill - very tasty dark meat

marlin vs

Although its legal to shoot hares, it's major taboo among shooters in South Kilkenny and Waterford and frowned upon.But each to their own, just not for me.

gunny123

A relation bought a place in kildare over 30 years ago. I was thrilled as i used to go down and stay during the school hol's.

First thing i noticed was there were few rabbits, the place was crawling with foxes. So i bought a .22 hornet in the gunshop in naas.

I started shooting foxes, 16 in one night was the record. There was blue murder when the hunt found out, so i had to stop.

Started shooting hares and i was nearly lynched, the guy who had the local pub was a big-wig in the coursing club. Had to pack that in too.

Uinseann_16

I shoot hares around here from time to time just for the pot theres plenty of them around and the population has grown very well around me since i reduced the feral cat population which was doing damage to all sorts of wildlife.
The backstrap is very nice meat. which reminds me theres one in the freezer:P

Grizzly 45

gunny123 wrote: »

A relation bought a place in kildare over 30 years ago. I was thrilled as i used to go down and stay during the school hol's.

First thing i noticed was there were few rabbits, the place was crawling with foxes. So i bought a .22 hornet in the gunshop in naas.

I started shooting foxes, 16 in one night was the record. There was blue murder when the hunt found out, so i had to stop.

Started shooting hares and i was nearly lynched, the guy who had the local pub was a big-wig in the coursing club. Had to pack that in too.

The antis could gain a lot of mileage out of that position.I could see our Callan friend firing up his word processor to bulk email the letters to the editor with fake outrage on this.:P

270WIN

marlin vs wrote: »

Although its legal to shoot hares, it's major taboo among shooters in South Kilkenny and Waterford and frowned upon.But each to their own, just not for me.

Same here in West Limerick..considered bad luck to shoot em! They are left for the coursing clubs...each to their own sport.

gunny123

Bad luck to shoot them, did you ever hear such bull**** blarney ?

Nekarsulm

gunny123 wrote: »

Bad luck to shoot them, did you ever hear such bull**** blarney ?

That's probably because the Hare features a lot in Irish mythology, and eating them was taboo.
This fact was apparently was even remarked upon by Cesear.
There seems to have been a belief that "witchy" women could change themselves into a hare, and that "eating a hare was like eating your own grandmother".!

We are not yet so far removed from those old beliefs!

Grizzly 45

No wonder we have a shortage of witches in around my parts then... I was wondering where all the old women around my parish were disappering to and why some of the hares were so tough.:D
and thats revenge then for old witches eating kids in German legends like Hansel and Gretel.

Sparks

Tuesday March 26 2019

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
561. To ask the Tiste and Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to review firearms licensing regulations in view of the recent tragedy in New Zealand, particularly in relation to regulations that allow for children over 14 years of age to possess firearms. [13905/19]

David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)

I wish to advise the Deputy that there are stringent controls under Irish legislation on the issue of firearm certificates by An Garda Sh and the conditions under which firearms can be held. There are severe penalties in place for firearm offences under the Firearms Acts.

Every application for a firearm certificate is considered on its individual merits and an application cannot be granted by a Garda Superintendent unless certain conditions, set out in law, are met. These include, amongst others, that the person can be permitted to possess a firearm without danger to the public safety and that the person has a good reason for requiring the firearm.

New conditions regarding an application were introduced under the Criminal Justice Act 2006. These conditions include the requirement of applicants to provide two referees to attest to their character, and also a requirement on each applicant to provide written consent for an issuing officer to make any enquiries in relation to the applicant’s medical history from a health professional.

Certain firearms are “restricted” under Irish legislation (e.g. such as large calibre handguns) and these attract additional conditions to be met over and above the standard requirements. These conditions include that the applicant has demonstrated that the firearm is the only type of firearm that is appropriate for the purpose for which it is required. Decisions on restricted firearms are made by a Garda Chief Superintendent.

In accordance with Section 2A of the Firearms Act, 1925, as amended, a person over 14 years of age can apply for a firearms training certificate. Such a certificate authorises the person to possess a firearm only while carrying and using the firearm for hunting or target shooting and under the supervision of a specified person over 18 years of age who holds a firearms certificate in respect of the firearm concerned. The Garda Sh deciding officer in any individual case may impose other conditions in the interests of public safety and security. An application for a training certificate, where the applicant is under 16 years of age, shall be accompanied by the written consent of the applicant's parent or guardian. Furthermore, Paragraph 8 of Statutory Instrument 493 of 2010: EC (Acquisition and Possession of Weapons and Ammunition) (Amendment) Regulations, provides that it shall not be lawful for any person to sell a firearm to which EU Firearms Directives apply to a person under 18 years of age.

The legislation also provides for the revocation of a firearms certificate, if the conditions which applied to the grant of the firearm in the first instance are no longer met.

A substantial review of firearms licensing, including consultation with the public, stakeholders and the relevant Oireachtas Committee, was undertaken in recent years. A number of measures identified as a result of this review are being progressed by my Department. These include a ban on new licences for semi automatic centre fire rifles and the establishment of a Firearms Assessment and Appeals Authority. The primary function of the Authority will be to determine, on the basis of an objective assessment of all the issues, with safety of the public being paramount, whether particular forms of firearms may be licensed in the State, whether there should be any limit on the number of such firearms and what safety conditions might properly be applied to their licensing.

In accordance with Section 3E of the Firearms Act 1925, as amended, the Garda Commissioner conducts an annual review of the operation of the Firearms Acts 1925 to 2009. This report is laid before each House of the Oireachtas.

The legislation regarding the regulation of firearm licensing continues to be reviewed on an ongoing basis.

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
562. To ask the Tiste and Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to review the regulations on the number of firearms a person can own. [13906/19]

David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)

I wish to advise the Deputy that there are stringent controls under Irish legislation on the issue of firearm certificates by An Garda Sh and the conditions under which firearms can be held. There are also severe penalties in place for firearms offences under the Firearms Acts.

While there is nothing in law that specifically limits the number of firearms a person can own, a person must apply to An Garda Sh for a firearm certificate in respect of each individual firearm they wish to possess. Each application is assessed on its merits in accordance with law.

The conditions that an applicant for a firearm certificate must satisfy include:

- The individual has a good reason for requiring the firearm;

- The individual can be permitted to possess, use and carry the firearm without danger to the public safety or security or the peace;

- The individual is not a person declared under law to be disentitled to hold a firearm certificate (this includes a person sentenced to imprisonment for certain offences, a person of unsound mind, a person not ordinarily resident in the State for a period of six months before applying, amongst others);

- Where the firearm is a rifle or pistol to be used for target shooting, the individual is a member of an authorised rifle or pistol club;

- The individual has provided secure accommodation for the firearm.

S.I. No. 307/2009 - Firearms (Secure Accommodation) Regulations 2009 establishes the minimum secure accommodation required for firearm storage. A progressively higher minimum standard of security is required under the regulations where there are differing numbers of firearms stored at the same location.

The Garda Commissioner issues Guidelines as to the practical application and operation of the Firearms Acts 1925 to 2009. These Guidelines were last updated in September 2018.

In accordance with Section 3E of the Firearms Act 1925, as amended, the Garda Commissioner conducts an annual review of the operation of the Firearms Acts 1925 to 2009. This report is provided to the Minister and is laid before each House of the Oireachtas.

The legislation regarding the regulation of firearm licensing is reviewed on an ongoing basis.

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
563. To ask the Tiste and Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to examine the gun ownership regulations that allow applicants to obtain firearms without providing medical reports or undertaking psychiatric evaluation as part of the application process. [13907/19]

David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)

I can advise the Deputy that there are stringent controls under Irish legislation on the issue of firearm certificates by An Garda Sh and the conditions under which firearms can be held.

An Garda Sh advise that each application for a firearms certificate is considered on its merits by the issuing officer in accordance with the relevant legislation.

The Barr Tribunal investigated the circumstances regarding a fatal shooting in Abbeylara, Co. Longford in April 2000. In his Report, Mr. Justice Barr agreed with the view of the Irish College of Psychiatrists that psychiatric assessments in relation to firearms certificate applications as a statutory requirement were not appropriate.

Regarding the provision of medical reports, Mr Justice Barr’s Report stated:

“The submissions and evidence on this issue from a wide range of experts to which I have already referred, when considered in conjunction with Lord Cullen’s opinion in his Dunblane Report (with which there appears to be general agreement) establishes that there should not be any statutory requirement for the mandatory provision of medical certificates by applicants for gun licences or renewals thereof. In the light of the evidence presented on this topic, it is evident that there are major practical difficulties in implementing such a statutory requirement. These include the fact that in many instances a gun licence applicant’s general medical practitioner may not have sufficient knowledge of his or her patient, or specialist expertise to make an appropriate assessment and the time factor (and expense) involved in making a realistic psychiatric specialist assessment of the applicant. In my opinion it is not a workable proposition.”

Arising from concerns expressed at the Barr Tribunal, new conditions for applications were introduced in the Criminal Justice Act 2006. These conditions include the requirement of applicants to provide two referees to attest to their character, and also a requirement on each applicant to provide written consent for an issuing officer to make any enquiries in relation to the applicant’s medical history from a health professional.

The Garda Commissioner’s Guidelines, as to the practical application and operation of the Firearms Acts 1925 to 2009, point out that this is a very sensitive issue and it is not possible to advise on every potential scenario which may arise in a decision making process.

The Guidelines state that:

- Issuing persons should be alert to cases in which a general practitioner's report reveals that an applicant has exhibited, or is exhibiting, signs of depression, suicidal tendencies, longstanding or intermittent periods of either emotional instability or unpredictable behaviour.

- Issuing persons should also be alert to any of these signs exhibited by existing certificate holders.

- It should be remembered that because a person has received treatment in the past for certain illnesses or conditions, such as depression or stress, it does not automatically follow they are unfit to possess a firearm. It is simply one of the factors to be considered with all other evidence relating to the applicant's character and history. In such cases, account should be taken of the latest medical opinion.

In accordance with Section 3E of the Firearms Act 1925, as amended, the Garda Commissioner conducts an annual review of the operation of the Firearms Acts 1925 to 2009. This report is provided to the Minister and is laid before each House of the Oireachtas.

The legislation regarding the regulation of firearm licensing continues to be reviewed on an ongoing basis.

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
564. To ask the Tiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of firearms training certificates held by 14 to 17 year olds; the increase or otherwise in the number of firearms certificates issued in 2018; the level of private legally held firearms per head of population; and the way in which these figures compare with figures from ten years ago in tabular form. [13908/19]

David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)

I wish to advise the Deputy that, in 2009, major changes were introduced in the way firearms were licensed in the State. Key changes saw the introduction of a new three-year firearm certificate. The legislation also saw the introduction of a Firearms Training Certificate.

In accordance with Section 2A of the Firearms Act, 1925, as amended, a person over 14 years of age can apply for a firearms training certificate. Such a certificate authorises the person to possess a firearm only while carrying and using the firearm for hunting or target shooting and under the supervision of a specified person over 18 years of age who holds a firearms certificate in respect of the firearm concerned. An application for a training certificate, where the applicant is under 16 years of age, shall be accompanied by the written consent of the applicant's parent or guardian.

An Garda Sh advise that figures of firearm certificates relating to 10 years ago are not comparable with figures for the current numbers of firearm certificates, as the numbers, classes and types of firearm certificates previously issued under legislation prior to 2009 differ to the three-year certificates issued since then. An Garda Sh have advised that the number of firearms currently licensed in the State in 2019 has reduced significantly, by in the region of circa 30,000 firearms, from the number licensed in 2008/2009.

The following table sets out the number of Firearm Training Certificates currently on issue in the State to individuals over 14 years of age included in the overall number of 187,445 certificates. fully processed and issued as of 1 January, 2019.

- Firearm Certificates as of 1st January, 2019
Training Certificates 156
Total Firearm Certificates 187,445

BattleCorp

Any Green Party candidate calling to my house is going to be roundly fcuked out of it and ran out the gate.

grassroot1

He didn't think up those questions himself they were fed to him.

Not bothered normally

local elections coming up in may....politicians will talk about the opening of a packet of crisps to get airspace..........while accepting that what happened in NZ is very sad.

GP needs to be reminded that shooters/hunters are licensed to vote as well as hold firearms

berettaman

Sparks wrote: »

Tuesday March 26 2019

There is probably some consultant or advisor trying to justify his or her existence by writing the questions ...and the answers.:rolleyes:

cavan shooter

berettaman wrote: »

Sparks wrote: »

Tuesday March 26 2019

There is probably some consultant or advisor trying to justify his or her existence by writing the questions ...and the answers.:rolleyes:

Now that you say that both the questions and the answers seem to be from the same person, the fact the query seeks answers in relation to legally held firearms.....id say that the person who wrote it ....well I suppose that's a stretch the wording is quite similar. When have you ever heard a Politician differentiate between legal and illegal firearms in all the years?

grassroot1

Oh the hand of Voldemort dear friends
Hasn't he become indispensable to FG

Sparks

Tuesday, 16 April 2019

Donnchadh Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein)
214. To ask the Tiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of times firearms certificates have been granted to personnel from other jurisdictions; the personnel granted certificates; and the circumstances in which they were granted. [17359/19]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
Firstly, I assume the Deputy is primarily referring to official foreign security personnel who accompany certain persons, such as visiting dignitaries and others, when travelling to this State. The general legal position is that under Section 2(2)(b) of the Firearms (Firearms Certificate for Non-Residents) Act 2000, the Minister for Justice and Equality has a power to grant firearms certificates, including to official foreign security personnel, where it is deemed necessary to do so. This is a normal and established feature of international relations between states.

Decisions in relation to the grant of certificates to official foreign security personnel are made following consultation with An Garda Sh. As the House will appreciate, for obvious reasons, it is long standing practice not to comment in detail on matters relating to security in such circumstances.

Firearms certificates were granted in respect of a total of 131 such personnel in 2017 and a total of 134 in 2018.

In addition, a number of firearms certificates were issued to State personnel from other jurisdictions in different circumstances. These included certificates granted for ceremonial purposes; to a veterinary team; and foreign defence personnel who were participating in target shooting competitions or target shooting training courses in the State. Separately, firearms certificates for non-residents who wish to shoot in the State for hunting and sporting purposes are issued by An Garda Sh.

Wednesday, 17 April 2019

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
14. To ask the Taoiseach if he will report on his most recent conversations with the Prime Minister of New Zealand; and the issues that were discussed. [15147/19]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
15. To ask the Taoiseach if he will report on his recent conversations with the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Ms Jacinda Ardern. [16481/19]

Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
16. To ask the Taoiseach if he will report on his most recent conversations with the Prime Minister of New Zealand. [17790/19]

Leo Varadkar (Taoiseach, Department of An Taoiseach; Dublin West, Fine Gael)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 to 16, inclusive, together.

I spoke by telephone with the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern, on 27 March. The Prime Minister contacted me to discuss what actions might be taken to counter the proliferation of violent and extremist online content following the horrific terror attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand on 15 March. I took the opportunity to pass on to the Prime Minister and the people of New Zealand the condolences of the Irish Government, this House and our people on the tragic loss of 50 innocent lives and the injuries to so many others.

The Prime Minister and I discussed initiatives being put in place here in Ireland and across the EU to tackle violent and illegal online content. It is the view of the Government that we can no longer rely on self-regulation alone by digital platform providers to ensure that users are kept safe online. The Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Deputy Bruton, recently concluded a public consultation on the online safety Bill which will establish a national regulatory authority to oversee the course of actions that online platforms have in place to protect their users. It will implement provisions of the revised EU audio-visual media services directive requiring video sharing platforms to protect users from content containing hate speech and other illegal content. The Bill also draws on work done by the Law Reform Commission on the establishment of an online digital safety commission, which, in turn, is inspired by existing legislation in New Zealand.

Ireland is also involved in detailed discussions at EU level on the proposed new EU regulation on preventing the dissemination of terrorism content online. This proposal obliges service providers to remove offending content within a short timeframe and provides for fines of up to 4% of annual global turnover in the event of systematic failure to remove content. This proposal is still under discussion and is unlikely to be concluded before the European elections. However, once enacted, Ireland will establish a competent authority to ensure that companies comply with this regulation.

I agreed with Prime Minister Ardern that our officials would compare approaches to these challenges and that we will stay in touch on the matter. We considered the possibility of a high-level meeting involving her and other EU Prime Ministers in Europe in the foreseeable future.

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
I thank the Taoiseach for the reply. Prime Minister Arden's approach in the aftermath of the horrific shooting and murders in Christchurch set an example globally of statesmanship of which everybody involved in politics, women and men, can be proud.

Following on from the Taoiseach's comments regarding the introduction of further gun control in New Zealand, will he consider the introduction of similar legislation here? This morning, there was another gun attack in the Sheephill area of Corduff. There was also a gun attack early last night in Finglas. One of these gun attacks took place in the constituency which the Taoiseach and I represent and the other was in an adjacent constituency. There are armed patrols patrolling the city centre in Dublin. The Taoiseach referred in his reply to advances New Zealand is making in this area. Its response to the murders was to tighten gun control significantly. In the aftermath of the Christchurch murders, did the Taoiseach take the opportunity to review security and gun control here, which, because of the cocaine and other drugs trade, is pretty much out of control? Children in our primary schools are worried about walking to and from school because they might get caught up in gunmen shooting at each other. As I said, early this morning in a nice estate like Sheephill, there was a gun attack which we are given to understand is related to feuding among rival drugs gangs and drugs operators.

The Taoiseach's engagement with Prime Minister Ardern probably took place in the immediate aftermath of the shootings. Will he take a leaf out of New Zealand's book and try to remove guns from Irish society so that our society will not be worn down, exploited and, possibly, destroyed by the drugs trade in terms of the gun violence that it is bringing to the streets of all our major cities and, particularly, the areas he and I represent? Will he establish a special task force to address this issue because it needs to be done?

Eugene Murphy (Roscommon-Galway, Fianna Fail)
As there are less than seven minutes remaining for these questions, I ask members to brief in order that the Taoiseach will have an opportunity to reply.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
It is one month since the horrific mosque shootings in New Zealand that shocked all of us from a variety of perspectives. If one had to pick a country where one would expect this type of right wing extremism to happen, New Zealand would be last country to come to mind. This proves that there is nowhere on the planet immune from the perils of such an attack. We in Ireland cannot be complacent. It has been said in the past that not only could an attack occur on our own soil in the Republic, but the Republic could be used as a base for an attack on a neighbouring jurisdiction.

The Garda have noted an increase in online activity aimed at an Irish audience of those of the extreme right - the fascist right. Has the Taoiseach considered this as a major threat? I know that the Government periodically carries out an assessment of threats. Can the Taoiseach give an assurance to the House that An Garda Sh has the capacity to monitor adequately this insidious, terribly damaging online activity?

MicheMartin (Leader of the Opposition; Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
I join all those who praised Prime Minister Ardern for her great leadership in the aftermath of the Christchurch atrocity. She made a very powerful statement to the people of New Zealand and to the world about the need for unity against hate and for all of us to stand with minorities who are under attack. The recent spurt of Islamophobic campaigns by politicians in many countries is something we need to fight against not only here but internationally as well. Our media should understand that there are many people out there who have no problem picking on minorities if they think it might get them attention. They are happy to play on the margins and the proportional representation system here is such that media coverage can deliver a real electoral advantage and bonus to people engaged in such activity. The media need to remember too that they have the freedom to cover anything but they need to avoid falling again and again for giving significant exposure to people exploiting division for political purposes. In this context, the Taoiseach may be aware that the European Commission carried out research in every European Union country on attitudes to immigrants in general, which found that there are many places where people have limited or no experience of Muslims but have been persuaded by demagogues to fear them. Thankfully, Ireland is one of the best countries when it comes to open attitudes to different faiths and cultures, which we must actively protect. More should be done to promote integration. We have not as yet achieved full integration in society of minorities and different faiths and cultures. Local authorities are perfectly placed to promote programmes locally and some have been doing an excellent job in this regard.

What initiatives are planned to actively monitor and combat the hateful ideology behind the Christchurch attack?

Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)
The horrific attacks in Christchurch one month ago left all of us numb. As has been said, Christchurch, New Zealand is the last place one would imagine this might happen. There is a central lesson in that, namely, that no part of our globe is immune from this toxic cancer of hatred. There is no doubt that we have much to do in our own society to ensure cohesion.

Deputy Burton referred to the constituency which she and the Taoiseach represent.

I am mindful of the fact that there is great diversity in many of the sprawling new suburbs in the Taoiseach's constituency. When I visit those large suburbs, I look around and ask what service provision and integration are like in them. I should also state that we have great diversity in my constituency, and I ask the same questions in our inner city. If we are honest, we have to state that public policy in this area has been lacklustre. We have been lacking in the power of our intent to ensure new citizens and newcomers to our country are fully integrated.

Not surprisingly, I share the concern that has been expressed about guns on the streets. Neighbourhoods I represent have endured a so-called feud which has involved young children witnessing and being hurt as a result of horrific acts of violence. I suggest that the answer is somewhere in the realm of good community policing and resourcing. The Taoiseach might advise us of his plans in that regard.

Leo Varadkar (Taoiseach, Department of An Taoiseach; Dublin West, Fine Gael)
I very much agree with the Deputies who have praised the response of Prime Minister Ardern to last month's events in Christchurch. I believe she responded with great dignity and leadership. She became a unifying force for New Zealand. In our conversations, she often speaks about how we need to tackle both the root causes and the enablers of terrorism and extremism. That is the correct approach. Quite frankly, I do not think she could have handled it better. I am absolutely sure she would have preferred not to have had to handle it at all.

Gun control in New Zealand was very weak, relative to Ireland, prior to last month's appalling tragedy in Christchurch. The authorities in New Zealand responded to what happened by taking the opportunity to tighten their gun laws, which are still somewhat looser than the gun laws in this jurisdiction. We already have stringent controls on the issuing of firearms certificates by An Garda Sh and the conditions under which firearms can be held. There are penalties in place for firearms offences under the Firearms Acts. Every application for a firearms certificate is considered on its individual merits. An application cannot be granted by a Garda superintendent unless certain conditions set out in law are met. The Firearms Acts provide that a person applying for a firearms certificate "can be permitted" to possess a firearm "without danger to the public safety" and must have "a good reason for requiring the firearm".

Certain firearms, such as semi-automatic centrefire rifles and large-calibre handguns, are considered restricted under Irish law and attract additional conditions over and above the standard requirements that must be met. Such requirements include a requirement for the applicant to have "demonstrated that the firearm is the only type of weapon that is appropriate for the purpose for which it is required". Decisions on restricted firearms are made by a Garda chief superintendent. The Firearms Acts also provide for the revocation of a firearms certificate if the conditions which applied to the granting of the firearms certificate in the first instance are no longer met.

Mandatory minimum sentences were introduced in 2006 for certain firearms offences on foot of concerns about the effects that such offences were having on society in general. Legislation was introduced in 2008 to arrest the growth in large-calibre handguns. As a result, such firearms are no longer licensable unless a firearms certificate was held at the time the legislation was commenced. While there are approximately 200,000 firearms certificates in the State, the vast majority of them relate to shotguns that are held by farmers for the purposes of vermin control.

A substantial review of firearms licensing, including consultation with the public, stakeholders and the relevant Oireachtas committee, has been undertaken in recent years. A number of actions have been identified as a result of this review. The Department of Justice and Equality is actively progressing some of these actions, including a ban on new licences for semi-automatic centrefire rifles and the establishment of a firearms assessment and appeals authority. Almost all gun crimes in Ireland are committed using guns that are held illegally and are not licensed. I think it is fair to say that our gun laws are successful in that regard. The issue of illegally held firearms is a separate matter that requires separate action.

Cabinet subcommittee F, which deals with national security and comprises Ministers, officials, representatives of Defence Forces intelligence and Garda intelligence and personnel from the National Cyber Security Centre, has met in the past two weeks. We used that opportunity to review the threat level. We recognised that if a lone-wolf white supremacist from Australia could go to New Zealand and do what he did, a lone-wolf white supremacist here in Ireland, or from Britain, could do something similar here. No country is immune to terrorism. We considered what could be done to prevent it and how we would respond to it. For the first time, there have been joint exercises involving the Garda, the Defence Forces and the blue-light services. We have advertised for the position of head of the new national security co-ordination centre, which will be set up under the auspices of the Department of the Taoiseach. We will have that structure established this year.