The consultation, launched at the end of March had been due to close this week (29th May). It proposed full cost recovery fees, representing increases of up to 153%, including raising a standard firearms licence from £98 to as much as £250. Firearms Dealer Certificates were also set to rise dramatically from £300 to £764.

Ms Lockhart, who was critical of the proposed ‘gun tax’ from the outset said: “This is the right decision, but the Minister’s U-turn comes at the eleventh hour - just two days before the consultation was due to close.

“The Justice Minister should never have progressed with these deeply flawed proposals at taxpayers’ expense, especially when she had already been warned about the strength of feeling and widespread opposition from farmers and those who own legally held firearms for sporting and conservation purposes.”

The UK government raised firearms licensing costs on 5^th February 2025, and as a result, farmers in England, Scotland and Wales, have been saddled with exorbitant fees for obtaining and renewing firearms and shotgun permits.

Carla Lockhart MP added: “Northern Ireland was exempt from the increased costs because of its devolved government position. However, just over 13 months later, Justice Minister Naomi Long attempted to mirror these astronomical increases by launching a consultation on proposed amendments to the Firearms (Northern Ireland) Order 2004 - amendments to schedule 6 licensing fees, and schedule 1A calibres of firearms, referred to as the banded system.”

“These proposals would have placed yet another financial burden on farmers who are already under severe pressure from rising costs, volatile markets and damaging government policies.

“Firearms are essential tools on many farms for vermin control, livestock protection and the humane slaughter of fallen animals. Penalising those who rely on them for legitimate agricultural purposes was never acceptable,’ stressed the DUP’s Agricultural spokesperson.

“There are more than 54,000 legally held guns in Northern Ireland, and many of these will include shotguns and rifles legally held by farmers and landowners. The Minister’s proposals were not acceptable, especially in the current financial climate.”

The proposed and unwelcome hike in fees reflected PSNI admin and operational costs, as well as inflation. The move was deemed as unreasonable, especially as the level of service is sub-standard. Many firearms owners have lost confidence in the system as a result of unpredictable and lengthy delays. The proposed banded system added another level unnecessary complexity to an already overstretched service.

The MP paid tribute to the many firearms licence holders, dealers, farming organisations and members of the rural community who spoke out and made their voices heard. “Their united response has forced this rethink,” she said.



“Going forward, there must be genuine engagement with those affected, rather than imposing costly and bureaucratic measures on people who are simply complying with the law.”