A ban on handguns will be introduced under a Bill to overhaul the licensing of firearms published by the Government today.
Minister for Justice Dermot Ahern said the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous) Provisions Bill 2009 will ban new licenses for all handguns with the exception of those relating to Olympic sports.
Under the Bill any existing handgun licenses will be subject to the new licensing procedures where their renewal is sought and will allow Superintendents to enquire into the medical history of applicants.
It will also be an offence to brandish imitation firearms in a public place.
Speaking at the graduation of Reserve Members of An Garda Síochána Mr Ahern said there are currently about 1,800 licensed handguns in the State.
He said: “The number of handguns could grow exponentially and would equate to that of countries such as the United States unless the issue is tackled.
The Bill increases the penalty for possessing a knife in a public place from one to five years and Gardaí have been given extended powers of search without warrant in relation to knives and offensive weapons.
Samurai swords will also to be outlawed.