Plans to hike firearms licensing fees by more than 150% have been branded “unreasonable” and a fresh blow to rural communities.
The Department of Justice is consulting on proposals to increase firearms licensing fees by 153%, a move critics say would unfairly penalise law‑abiding certificate holders while longstanding problems in the system remain unresolved.
Newry and Armagh DUP MLA Gareth Wilson said he will oppose the plans, arguing the department should “pause” the consultation and carry out a full, evidence‑based review before asking shooters and farmers to pay more.
“I have serious concerns about the proposal to increase firearms licensing fees by such a significant margin,” he said.
“While it is important that policing services are properly resourced, it is simply not reasonable to place this level of financial burden on law‑abiding certificate holders when long‑standing inefficiencies and delays within the licensing system remain unresolved.”
Mr Wilson, a keen shooter himself, said many applicants have faced “persistent delays for years” and that there is “little evidence” a 150%+ fee rise would fix the problems.
“This issue is of particular concern to rural communities, where firearms are often essential for farming, pest control and land management,” he continued.
“At a time when rural families and agricultural businesses are already under pressure, these proposals risk placing a further unfair and disproportionate burden on those who rely on firearms as part of everyday life.”
He added: “I believe the Minister should pause this consultation and allow a proper, evidence‑based review of the firearms licensing system to take place. Law‑abiding firearm users should not be penalised for systemic failures that are beyond their control.”
