Sir, – Conor Gallagher’s article “Guns in Ireland” (Weekend Review, August 6th) is a well-written and balanced piece regarding the holding and use of firearms in Ireland.
Many people enjoy the sport of target and game-shooting without causing any issues. The current Firearms Expert Committee, as established by Minister of State James Browne, and looking into how the firearms regime could be improved, should consider the establishment of a central licensing unit within An Garda Síochána.
Inconsistencies in licensing between various Garda districts needs to be addressed.
By establishing a central unit, local input into the application should be limited to suitability and background checks on the applicant, which could feed into the central unit.
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Much court time, over the years, has been spent on appeals taken by individuals regarding decisions made by Garda superintendents and chief superintendents relating to firearms licensing.
A more consistent approach to licensing would benefit all and lead to a clearer and better-understood licensing regime. – Yours, etc,
CONOR HOGARTY,
Blackrock,
Co Dublin.