'In East Londonderry, firearms are not a luxury' - Local independent MLA says proposed rise “will be deeply concerning for many people'
East Londonderry MLA Claire Sugden has raised concerns about proposed increases to firearms licensing fees, highlighting the potential impact on individuals, farm businesses and rural communities.
She said that “the level of increase being proposed will be deeply concerning for many people”.
" I am hearing from constituents who are already managing rising costs, and for some, this will feel like an additional pressure they simply cannot absorb.”
“In rural areas like East Londonderry, firearms are not a luxury.” she added.
"They are a necessary part of farm life, used to protect livestock and manage land.
"These proposals risk placing a significant financial burden on people who rely on them as part of their everyday work and responsibilities.”
She added that she is “also very mindful of those who hold a Personal Protection Weapon”.
"These are individuals who have been assessed as facing a real risk to their safety, and it is important that any changes to fees take account of those circumstances.
"There also needs to be careful consideration of how these proposals affect rural communities more widely.
“These proposals are still out for consultation, and no final decisions have been taken.
"It’s important that people take the opportunity to have their say before anything is decide,” she added.