A gun register could be in place if Parliament passes the second tranche of the Arms Legislation Bill next week

The issue was discussed at an Otago University firearms and public health seminar last night.

Police Association president Chris Cahill says the register would enable a tally of how many guns are in society - and where they are.

He says there's enough international evidence to show a gun register can play a role in community safety.

Cahill says claims about the Bill not tackling some issues like gangs - can actually be addressed with separate legislation.