Aindrias Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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56. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the up-to-date position on plans to impose conditions on firearm certificate holders, and his level of consultation with stakeholders on these proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18080/23]

James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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I can advise the Deputy that I established the Firearms Expert Committee (FEC) on a non-statutory basis, with representation from stakeholders, my Department and An Garda Síochána.

The purpose of the FEC was to serve in an advisory capacity to me as Minister, providing guidance on a wide range of matters related to firearms licensing in the State.

In line with its comprehensive terms of reference, which were made publicly available, the FEC was tasked with making recommendations on a range of firearms matters for my subsequent consideration.

The final meeting of the FEC took place last month, and I have received their final reports, which I published on Friday, 31 March 2023 on Gov.ie.  

I have emphasised throughout the process that any proposed changes to policy or legislation arising from any of the recommendations by the FEC will be subject to prior consultation with firearms stakeholders.

To that end, an online consultation platform is now being developed.  Details of the consultation process will be finalised and publicised as soon as possible, and I will be encouraging as many people and organisations as possible to engage in this consultative process.