How the Hell they can complicate such an obviously simple situation is beyond me.
So; firearms are allowed in the Irish Republic ?
And beyond me too. Even the bible authorizes using deadly force to defend your home, Exodus ch 22:2.
But you have to give the Irish judge credit for one thing, his ruling puts Ireland light years ahead of the Brits in that regard. If a household occupant kills a burglar in the UK he or she will be on the road to prison before the burglar's blood dries.