A group of doctors are calling on the Department of Justice and Equality to cease issuing gun licences until medical checks for applicants are clarified and agreed with the Irish Medical Organisation.
A GP in Mayo and former IMO president Dr Ken Egan is supporting a motion tabled for the organisation's annual meeting next week, calling for clear medical assessment criteria.
He said this was important given the increase in suicides and other incidents.
To be eligible to hold a firearms certificate, a person must be over 16 years, and in the judgement of a Garda Supt be of good character, sound mind and have a valid reason for holding a firearm.
Dr Egan said a GP should be involved in a medical assessment as the family doctor would usually be very familiar with a patient's medical history and if there were any risks.
