Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
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412. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality in view of recent reports, if he is examining proposals at present to increase the restrictions on handgun ownership; the current status of these proposals; if he will provide an assurance that any new regulations will not impact on game hunters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11751/14]

Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Independent)
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432. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has received representations seeking the withdrawal of certain firearms from licensing, and if so, what these proposals are; if he will provide an opportunity to the tourism industry and gun clubs to make a submission on these; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12145/14]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 412 and 432 together.

In relation to possible changes to firearms licensing I refer the Deputies to my reply to questions 8957/14, 9245/14 and 9736/14 of 25 February 2014 and to questions 10365/14 and 10999/14 of 4 March . The position is unchanged since then.

Reply to questions 8957/14, 9245/14 & 9736/14 of 25 February 2014 and questions 10365/14 & 10999/14 of 4 March:

In light of public safety concerns highlighted by the Garda Commissioner and difficulties in the interpretation of the legislation expressed by members of the judiciary, my Department is examining key issues relating to firearms licensing in conjunction with An Garda Síochána. Recommendations are currently being finalised and I expect to receive a report in due course. No decisions will be made in advance of consideration of these recommendations. Opportunities for consultation with relevant stakeholders will be explored when work on the proposals is further advanced.