Theory test urged for gun owners

Gun owners should have to complete a theory test and practical assessment before getting a licence to hold a firearm, a cross-party committee has said.

They should also have to store all firearms in a gun safe, even those currently exempted from the gun safe requirement, and should have to fit time control locks to their safes so access is only possible at pre-determined times.

The Oireachtas justice committee also wants a temporary halt on the licencing of .22 calibre short firearms and centre fire semi-automatic rifles, pending a further review.