Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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138. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if her Department has received submissions from various sporting bodies with reference to the control and regulation of firearms; if she will meet the concerns of the sporting organisations while maintaining good regulation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2053/15]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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Following public safety concerns raised by An Garda Síochána in relation to specific categories of firearms a joint Department and Garda Síochána Working Group was established to examine this issue in October 2013. The Report also refers to difficulties in the interpretation of the legislation expressed by members of the judiciary. The Working Group Report was published on 13 November. The deadline for receipt of submissions by my Department is 31 January 2015. The Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality also sought submissions on the Report.

Submissions have been received to date from a number of individuals and sporting bodies. Further submissions are expected. I am asking stakeholders and other groups who have an interest in this area to engage with this process so that their views can be considered before final decisions are made in relation to this matter. With respect to the Report's recommendations on proposed changes and restrictions, I wish to take this opportunity to reiterate a commitment that I have given that will not make any final decisions until I have had the opportunity to consider all the submissions which are made and I have met the key stakeholders, including the organisations that represent those who use firearms for sporting purposes.