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The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Mr. Dermot Ahern, T.D., is to bring proposals to Cabinet to tighten the availability of handguns.

The Minister has consulted both the Attorney General and the Garda Commissioner in the light of comments made by Mr. Justice Peter Charleton, in a recent case where a licence for a handgun was refused, about the steep increase in recent years in the number of handguns being licenced.

Since his appointment, the Minister has been concerned at the increasing number of handguns being licenced, which follows a series of court decisions favourable to persons seeking licences. Sections 30 and 32 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 provide for a new, stricter licencing regime for what are termed as 'restricted' firearms, which include the vast majority of handguns. Certain technical amendments are necessary in relation to their implementation and work has been proceeding on these.

The Minister also directed that consideration be given to what further measures may be necessary to tighten up the legislation in this regard.

Following his consultations with the Attorney General and the Garda Commissioner, the Minister has announced that he will bring forward proposals to the Cabinet with a view to introducing legislation early in the next Parliamentary session dealing with this matter. This will reflect the outcome of a short, intensive review of the relevant legislative provisions which he has directed to take place.

Speaking in Cannes at the EU Justice and HOme Affairs Council of Ministers meeting, Mister Ahern said:

"I am grateful to Mr. Justice Charleton for the comments he made. While I am aware that the vast majority of persons with licenced firearms pursue their interests legitimately, public safety has to be the paramount consideration and I will take whatever action is necessary to ensure that this is put beyond doubt in our laws".