asked the Minister for Justice if he will state the Government's policy in regard to firearms and weapons of the souvenir class having a sentimental and national value, and if he will indicate the instructions issued to the Garda Síochána in cases where they are put on display at local historical exhibitions sponsored by cultural or national bodies.

Firearms may not be kept as souvenirs by private persons who are not in possession of a firearms certificate unless they have been rendered ineffective. It is not the practice to require certificates to be taken out in respect of weapons of historical interest, where proper arrangements have been made for their safe custody, in museums or, subject to the same safeguards, at local historical exhibitions sponsored by cultural or national bodies.