34 firearms issued across Waterford and Kilkenny in 2025
There has been an average of 31 handguns issued across Waterford and Kilkenny per year since 2020
Gardaí have issued 34 handgun licenses across Waterford and Kilkenny in 2025 as of December 7.
Handguns refer to either a revolver or a pistol. This year was the second-highest number of firearm licenses issued across Waterford and Kilkenny since 2020. 48 handguns were issued in 2024.
Responding to a parliamentary question from Limerick Labour TD Conor Sheehan, Minister of State at the Department of Justice Niall Collins said responsibility lies almost solely on An Garda Síochána for issuing firearms.
The Firearms (Firearm Certificates for Non-Residents) Act 2000 gives the authority for granting licences to Superintendents of An Garda Síochána.
Under the act, a person can purchase a firearm, carry said firearm and hold as much ammunition as specified in their certificate.
A firearm can be used for recreational purposes such as target shooting, hunting or the killing of pests.
Kildare/Carlow was the area with the most firearms issued in 2025, with 154.
