Rise in theft of registered guns

The number of licensed guns reported stolen in the Republic is increasing, with 355 taken last year. The figure is higher than in recent years, with the average number of gun thefts since the start of 2010 running at 280.

It has also emerged that four new firing ranges were licensed last year, bringing the number across the State to 16.

The increase in the number of ranges opened has occurred at a time when the Garda has no range to practise on because those previously used by the force fell into disrepair and were deemed unsafe.

Members of the force’s specialist units and armed detectives had undergone training several times a year as visitors to military ranges, though budget shortfalls have seen that training cancelled in recent years.

Licensed clubs

The number of licensed rifle and pistol clubs at the end of last year was 20, the same number as in the previous year.

According to the annual review of the operation of the Firearms Acts in 2013, some 53 guns were reported lost last year. The report is compiled by the Garda for Government and was published by the Department of Justice yesterday.

Because firearms licences, or certificates, are now issued for a three-year period rather than annually, the number of certificates issued in a 12-month period does not reflect the number of licensed firearms in the State.

However, at the end of July 2012 – the close of the first three-year licensing period under new legislation – some 218,684 certificates had been issued during the three years.

Under new gun licensing legislation introduced in 2009, anyone seeking a licence for a firearm must pay a fee of €80.

The applicant has also been required to provide references as proof of character.