Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 316: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his proposals to confront those in the criminal underworld who specialise in the supply of firearms for unlawful purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16489/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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On Committee Stage of the Criminal Justice Bill 2004, I propose to introduce measures to provide that firearms and other offensive weapons may be surrendered to the Garda. I will also be proposing a range of measures to increase sentences for more serious range of firearms offences, including the introduction of mandatory minimum sentences in some cases. My full range of proposals will be announced to the House in the normal way in due course.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the national bureau of criminal investigation has successfully targeted and prosecuted several gangs involved in this type of criminality and that a number of firearms have been recovered or seized. I also refer the Deputy to my answer to Question No. 6 today.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 317: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action he proposes to take to deal with the situation of the sale, supply and use of illegal firearms in the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16490/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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There is a particular overriding necessity to ensure that public safety and security are given priority in any review of policy and legislation for firearms. I have decided to introduce at an early stage, certain proposals for inclusion in the Criminal Justice Bill. The Bill, as published, contains one of those proposals, to provide for the secure custody of firearms. Other provisions will be introduced through amendments on Committee Stage. These will deal with better controls on the type of firearms which may be certified. They will further specify certain additional requirements which will have to be met by applicants for certificates and allow for the imposition of conditions on the granting of a certificate. They will include a provision allowing the deeming by order of firearms which may not be certified.

Sentences for the more serious range of firearms offences will be increased, including the possibility of mandatory minimum sentences in some cases, as well as new offences of illegally modifying a firearm, for example, sawing off a shotgun barrel, and the imposition of severe penalties for this offence. I also refer the Deputy to my reply to today's Questions Nos. 5 and 6.