In reference to his Parliamentary Question no. 748 of 15 July, 2025, the Deputy will recall that I committed to responding to this question once the relevant information had been received from An Garda Síochána.

I can confirm that the Firearms Unit in my Department processes applications for all importation licences of firearms and ammunition and export licences to EU Member States. Individuals apply for an import license under section 17(1) of the Firearms Act 1925-2023, while An Garda Síochána apply under section 17(8).

The Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of Garda business under the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024. This includes all operational matters, such as the handling of firearms.

While investigations within An Garda Síochána are wholly a matter for the Garda Commissioner, I am advised by An Garda Síochána that there are no cases where the firearms have been determined to be for private use.

The below table details the number of import licences issued to An Garda Síochána from 2020 to 2025 to date.