Founded in 1988, the Association of Game Shoot Operators in Ireland (A.G.S.O.) is a non-profit-making, non-governmental, national association of game shoot operators. Members of the association come from several counties throughout the 26 counties of the Republic.

AGSO represents the interests of its members who provide facilities to clients who wish to partake in small game shooting, wildfowling, deer stalking in Ireland. Our members also provide archery and clay pigeon shooting. Game breeding, rearing and releasing of game birds is a requirement of Association members.

The primary objectives of the AGSO are:

1. To protect members.
2. To provide insurance for members.
3. To act and speak out on behalf of members on matters relating to non-residents shooting in Ireland.
4. To develop and improve the game stock on Association members’ lands.
5. To conserve wildlife and its’ habitat.

The AGSO does not have a premises of its own, but instead the committee maintain the Association through regular communication and meetings between both committee and Association members.

The AGSO liase with various national government departments and bodies to assist with current legislation proposals and topics of interest to AGSO members. Departments and bodies who liase with AGSO include:

1. An Garda Siochana
2. Department of Agriculture
3. Dúchas, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government
4. Coillte
5. Department of Justice
6. Fáilte Ireland.