However, to suggest it is lax is unbelievable. Ireland has the toughest laws in Europe, if not the world. Anything vaguely handgun shaped is prohibited. Centrefire semi-auto rifles are banned. Firearm Certificates have a Irish L100 licensing fee, and a seperate FAC is required per gun.
Licenses have to be renewed yearly.
All guns require an FAC - even air rifles. There may not be a requirement to be a member of a club or a training requirement expressly written into the law, but to get a license without being a member of a club is next to impossible. I suggest Mr Higgins check his facts rather than his popularity rating.