Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 442: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí who held a firearms permit on 31 December 2004 and 2005; if steps have been taken to significantly reduce the numbers with such training; and the reason therefor. [4040/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the total number of firearms cards issued for year ending the 31 December 2005 was 3,631. In December 2004, in response to a question from Deputy Howlin, I indicated that the Commissioner appointed a working group within the Garda Síochána, chaired by an assistant commissioner, to examine issues relating to the use of firearms in the force with particular reference to training. At this point, I have not yet received a report from the Commissioner on the findings of this working group.