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Shooting Forum - Firearms licencing information


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New Cert, New Gun

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  • 14-06-2010 6:28pm
    #1
    oztots
    Closed Accounts Posts: 297 ✭✭


    Neighbor wants to get a shotgun and has a few questions that i dont understand myself.

    It's his first firearm and is wondering what proof of competence entails. He has been shooting with a few of the lads around here, knows the idea of backstops and ranges for a shotgun and has a legitimate reason for the gun.

    I'm guessing the gards want something a bit more official than that?


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    #2
    ivanthehunter
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 1,284 ✭✭✭ivanthehunter


    Do a search here and look at licences.

    The issue has been extensively covered

    but he'll need to get the form from cop-shop or print one from here
    http://www.garda.ie/Documents/User/FCA1%20Firearm%20Certificate%20Application%5B2%5D.pdf


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    #3
    Rovi
    Closed Accounts Posts: 8,570 ✭✭✭Rovi


    Search this forum for the terms "competence" and/or "proficiency", you'll find a good few threads on the subject.

    Have a look too at the current version of the Commissioner's Guidelines (22nd October 2009), particularly the bit on page 11 that deals with 'competence':
    Proof of competence in the use of the firearm or ammunition which is subject of the application - depending on the circumstances of each case, an individual who has already possessed a certificate (without any convictions under the Firearms Act, 1925-2009) for a period of a minimum of 1 year may be considered to have fulfilled the proof of competency. First time applicants for firearms certificates may demonstrate that they have acquired a degree of competency in the use of firearms by satisfying the issuing person of having attended a firearms training course, or of having joined an authorised rifle or pistol club or range for the purpose of gaining competency in firearms use, or having previously been granted a firearms training certificate.

    An issuing person tasked with considering whether or not to grant a firearms certificate to an individual, must be satisfied that public safety is never compromised when making these decisions. Issuing persons should however bear in mind that the Act only requires proof of competency. Proof of proficiency in using a firearm, such as expertise in target shooting etc, is not necessary when considering proof of competence.
    Essentially, the level of 'competence' required of the applicant is at the discretion of the issuing authority (local Superintendent in this case).
    It'd probably be best to ask the local Garda dealing with firearms applications what their thoughts are, as the decision will be made based upon the applicant's own particular circumstances.

    The Gardai are running a National Firearms Awareness Day this Wednesday (16th June), when there will be advice and information available at all Garda Stations between 10am and 6pm; this would be an excellent opportunity for your neighbour to get it all sussed out.

    As far as I know, all the target shooting national governing bodies, clubs and ranges run competency courses, as do the NARGC.


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