Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 132: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of legally held firearms in this State; and if he is satisfied with public safety aspects. [32983/08]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I understand from the Garda Authorities that the total number of licensed firearms in the State is approx. 232,000. The number of licensed firearms has increased by approximately 10% over the last five years in line with the overall increase in population. Section 4 of the Firearms Act 1925 sets out the conditions of grant of a firearm certificate and specifies that the Superintendent shall, before granting a firearm certificate, be satisfied that the applicant:

(a) has a good reason for requiring the certificate,

(b) can be permitted to have in his possession, use, and carry a firearm or ammunition without danger to the public safety or to the peace, and

(c) is not a person declared by this Act to be disentitled to hold a firearms certificate.

Obviously, the safety of the public is paramount. While I accept that the vast majority of persons who hold licensed firearms use them legitimately, I have already indicated my concern at the increase in the number of handguns being licensed. That is why I directed a review of our firearms legislation. That review is being finalised at present and I will bring legislative proposals arising from it forward as quickly as possible.