Ulster Unionist Justice Spokesperson Doug Beattie MC MLA has welcomed the Justice Minister's decision to withdraw the consultation on firearms licensing fees and the banded system.

Doug Beattie MC MLA said:

"There was significant opposition to these proposals from across the rural and sporting community, and this U-turn by the Minister is the right course of action.

"The proposed increases were disproportionate and the process was clearly flawed. Withdrawing the consultation gives space for proper engagement, and any future proposals must be fair and built on a service that actually works for certificate holders.

“Before certificate holders are charged the full cost of this service, the service itself must work. The delays and appeals backlog must be addressed first, and any future proposals must protect those who hold weapons for personal protection because they are under threat.”