Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State, Deputy James Browne, has formed what he has called an expert firearms committee to review the current licensing of firearms in the State and make recommendations for future legislation. Why were the members of the firearms expert committee, FEC, not interviewed? Why has there been not been any meaningful consultation with national organisations representing those who take part in sports involving firearms? Do the Minister of State and the Taoiseach believe it right and fair that law-abiding citizens who apply for firearms licences must do so under criminal justice legislation? Given that we are part of the EU, will the FEC review the firearms licensing systems and legislation in place in other European countries prior to making recommendations to the Minister? It would make more sense than constantly referring to the US system which cannot be compared to the Irish one, except to say that they are polar opposites. It is an unfair comparison to use and depicts a negative image of those who hold licensed firearms in Ireland.

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