Gabrielle McFadden (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Much of what I wished to ask already has been asked. Coming from the midlands, I am sorry to say I know very little about guns but I should if the highest proportion of licences are held in the midlands. While it already has been mentioned, I am a little concerned about the 1,683 handguns. Are they all used for target practice? Other than that, why would anyone get a licence for a handgun?