asked the Minister for Justice the instructions that are given to the Garda on the use of firearms, specifically when Garda are authorised to shoot; and if they are directed to shoot to kill or to wound.

(Limerick East): The instructions which are issued to members of the Garda Síochána about the use of firearms are internal guidelines for the force which have always been treated as confidential. In this matter as in other aspects of law enforcement gardaí are subject to the law and the instructions are designed to ensure that the use of firearms by members will always be restricted to circumstances where the use is lawful. Over and above that, the instructions are intended to promote a highly-developed awareness of the responsibility, in human terms, attaching even to the lawful use of such weapons.

I am informed that the Garda authorities are at present reviewing the instructions to see whether any changes are desirable in the light of present-day circumstances.

Can the Minister assure the House that there is no basis for the recent press reports quoting Garda officers as stating that no specific instructions are given to the gardaí as to when they might use firearms? Can he assure us that the gardaí have detailed and specific instructions as to when they use firearms?

(Limerick East): I am not aware of the allegations to which the Deputy refers. As I have said, the instructions issued to members of the Garda Síochána about the use of firearms are internal guidelines for the force and have always been treated as confidential.