Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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610. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the reason the long-standing practice of issuing licences for firearms should change (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33583/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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An Garda Síochána exercise a range of functions with regard to the operation of firearms legislation, including the issuing of firearms certificates and authorisations. An Garda Síochána are responsible under provisions of the Firearms Act 1925 to 2009, for the administration and consideration of applications for firearm authorisations in the State. The Firearms (Firearm Certificates for Non-Residents) Act 2000 gives the authority for granting licences to Superintendents of An Garda Síochána. Superintendents, when considering firearms licence applications, are considered 'persona designata' and cannot have their decision-making process fettered in any way.

As a result, neither I nor my Department are in a position to intervene in this matter.