The Limerick East TD and Minister of State for Justice, Willie O'Dea, has said criminal activity in Limerick has had a negative impact on inward investment and tourism in the city.
Mr O'Dea said good work carried out in Limerick was being undone by negative perceptions associated with media publicity around criminal incidents.
Chief Superintendent Gerry Kelly said he feared for the safety of local gardaí.
And he said he was seriously concerned about the volume, variety and calibre weapons in the hands of local criminal gangs.
He said recent seizures of weapons suggested that sniper activity could develop and he urged licence holders of high calibre weapons to ensure they were properly secured.
