The Department of Justice has withdrawn proposals to increase firearms licensing fees after objections from the Ulster Farmers' Union. The union had argued that the planned rises were disproportionate and lacked adequate justification.

UFU Deputy President Glenn Cuddy stated that the increases would have added unfair costs for farmers already facing significant financial pressures. He noted that firearms serve as essential tools for pest control, livestock protection and land management rather than for recreation.

The union also questioned the limited data used to support the cost recovery model and the absence of a full assessment of effects on rural communities. It welcomed the involvement of the British Association for Shooting and Conservation in the consultation process.

Justice Minister Naomi Long has confirmed that a new approach to licensing fees will be developed with input from stakeholders. The UFU has called for agriculture to be fully included in those discussions.

Farmers rely on firearms for routine operations that support public safety and effective land management. The union maintains that future fee structures must account for these operational needs.