Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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111. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if recreational shooting within 5km of a person's home comes under the exercise exemption as set out within level 5 of the Covid-19 restrictions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34255/20]

Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
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At the outset I must clarify that I have no statutory function in relation to the recreational shooting of game. Game hunting is not recognized as a sporting activity by my Department or by Sport Ireland, the statutory agency responsible for the development of Irish sport.

The control of firearms is a matter for the Minister for Justice and An Garda Siochana. All recreational shooters must comply with the guidance and regulations issued by the Department of Justice and An Garda Siochana.

I understand that An Garda Síochána have clarified that recreational hunting does not fall under the any of the exemptions for exercise as provided for in the Health Act 1947 (Section 31a - Temporary Restrictions) (Covid-19) (No. 8) Regulations 2020. The Garda statement has also clarified that recreational hunting does not come under any permissible exemptions for travel outside of the home.