FPÖ Engages in Constructive Dialogue on Gun Law Reforms

Following the tragic school shooting in Graz, which resulted in the deaths of nine students and a teacher, discussions regarding potential revisions to Austria's gun laws have intensified. The Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) has expressed its openness to engaging in meaningful dialogue concerning sensible improvements in this area.

Gernot Darmann, the FPÖ's security spokesperson, emphasized that while the party welcomes discussions aimed at enhancing safety measures, it is crucial that these conversations are conducted in a rational and evidence-based manner, rather than being overshadowed by the emotional impact of the Graz incident. Darmann highlighted the importance of not stigmatizing law-abiding citizens who legally own firearms, stating that their legitimate rights to personal protection and defense must be preserved. The FPÖ firmly opposes any legislation that is solely reactionary in nature.

Among the proposed reforms, the FPÖ suggests raising the minimum age for purchasing category-C firearms, which currently stands at 18. Additionally, the party advocates for a review and potential modification of the psychological assessment required for obtaining a gun ownership license. Darmann noted that if the evaluation leads to an expansion or deepening of the psychological testing, any associated costs would be justifiable, considering that applicants currently pay around 300 euros for this assessment.

The public reaction has been particularly strong regarding the fact that the Graz shooter had previously been deemed unfit for military service due to psychological issues, yet was able to pass a subsequent psychological test to acquire firearms. In response, Darmann called for amendments to military legislation that would allow for the sharing of relevant psychological assessment results with the Ministry of the Interior (BMI). He advocated for routine inquiries into the psychological test results of individuals seeking gun permits, while opposing the blanket transfer of all data from military assessments to the BMI due to privacy concerns.

Darmann also pointed out that during previous coalition negotiations, it was agreed that a determination of psychological unfitness would have more significant implications for civilian life, impacting areas such as gun ownership, driving licenses, and hunting permits. He criticized the current government coalition for not including these measures in their program, which he believes would significantly enhance public safety in Austria.

As the FPÖ positions itself as a party focused on national security, Darmann reiterated the party's commitment to ensuring the highest level of safety for citizens. While he acknowledged that improvements to existing laws are necessary and welcomed, he also cautioned that even the most robust legislation cannot entirely prevent acts of violence like the tragedy in Graz.