Countryside Alliance Ireland - love the countryside

March 04

A new Draft Firearms Order has just passed successfully through Westminster and will become law in Northern Ireland within a matter of weeks

Northern Ireland has 80,000 firearm certificate holders and it is our hope that this new legislation will introduce even more people to shooting. The new legislation is the result of a review of our firearms legislation which started nine years ago and we have worked tirelessly to communicate clearly the views of the shooting community during this time.

While there are a number of issues we feel the Government has not taken on board properly, there are several important benefits for those with an interest in shooting. NI has some of the toughest firearms laws in the world and we in CAI have been campaigning for the introduction of a fairer, less restrictive system for many years.

How will these changes affect my ability to get a firearms certificate?
In future, new applicants will have to undergo a period of supervision, allow the PSNI access to their medical records and provide two references. This will make acquiring a firearms certificate unnecessarily bureaucratic.

How long does the firearms certificate last?
The life of a firearms certificate will be extended from 3 to 5 years. However, the PSNI have also announced that the process of firearm certificate renewals will be changed to one of ongoing re-grants, again introducing unfair and unnecessary restrictions.

Will I be able to borrow a gun?
Yes. Countryside Alliance Ireland have consistently campaigned for an opportunity to allow non firearm certificate holders to borrow a firearm under supervision, so that they can receive proper training or simply try the sport without committing themselves to considerable expense.

At what age can I get a firearms certificate?
You can acquire a firearms certificate from 18 years old, although people of 16 years and older can acquire a special "on loan" certificate which enables them to possess certain firearms under supervision from a particular certificate holder.

How do I buy a new gun?
You will require a firearms certificate. Visit your local registered firearms dealer, who will be happy to advise you on the most appropriate type of firearm to suit your needs and how to apply for a firearms certificate. You will need somewhere to shoot and in some cases membership of a club. For your nearest dealer contact Countryside Alliance Ireland.