The Department of Justice in Northern Ireland is consulting on proposals to raise firearms licensing fees by 153%.

Newry and Armagh DUP MLA Gareth Wilson opposes the plans. He states the department should pause the consultation and conduct a full evidence-based review before increasing fees for shooters and farmers.

Wilson expresses serious concerns over the significant fee hike. He argues it places an unreasonable financial burden on law-abiding certificate holders while delays and inefficiencies persist in the licensing system.

Applicants have experienced persistent delays for years, according to Wilson. He notes little evidence that the fee rise would resolve these issues.

The matter affects rural communities in particular, Wilson says. Firearms serve essential roles there in farming, pest control, and land management.

Rural families and agricultural businesses face existing pressures, Wilson adds. The proposals would add an unfair and disproportionate burden on those who depend on firearms for daily tasks.

Law-abiding firearm users should not face penalties for systemic failures outside their control, Wilson concludes.