Firearms & Explosives Branch would like to notify all interested parties that we continue to accept all applications. There will be some delays in a number of applications due to capacity to perform the full range of our functions in the continued pandemic environment.

We will continue to work on our recovery plan and will keep you informed of developments. We thank you for your support during these challenging times.

With the announcement by the NI Executive that non-food retail business can open we are delighted to inform the Firearms Dealers that from Friday 12 June 2020 we can begin accepting one-on one-off applications.

There are however changes to how we will accept paperwork such as 30/50 from Firearm Dealers. In order to reduce the use of paper which potentially could spread the coronavirus we will only be accepting paperwork via email and not post or fax. This will commence with immediate effect.

Please email your Form 30/50 to firearms@psni.pnn.police.uk immediately after the transaction has taken place. 

PLEASE ENSURE:

· You use the most recent version of the form which is available on the PSNI Firearms Licensing website under FORMS.

· The form is completed in full with a separate 30/50 for an associated sound moderator if appropriate.

· The form is typed to ensure the information is clear - however if it is necessary to complete the form with pen you must use black ink, block capitals and ensure all details are clear and legible. 


Please be advised that the following message will be updated on the PSNI Firearms Licensing Website in the coming days. 

Firearms and Explosives Branch are increasingly being made aware of firearm magazines being purchased over the internet by Firearm Certificate holders. This amounts to purchasing a ‘firearm’ over the internet and as such carries a significant penalty if the purchaser is prosecuted and convicted.

Firearms and Explosives Branch would be keen to avoid such prosecutions and to that end we are asking for your help to end this practice.  Within Northern Ireland Firearms Legislation and ordering a magazine over the internet is no different, in law, to ordering a handgun, rifle, etc.

The relevant definitions from the Firearms (Northern Ireland) Order 2004 are below.

 

“firearm” means a lethal barrelled weapon of any description from which any shot, bullet or other missile can be discharged and includes—

(a) any prohibited weapon, whether it is such a lethal weapon or not;

(b) any component part of such a lethal or prohibited weapon; and

(c) any accessory to any such weapon designed or adapted to diminish the noise or flash caused by firing the weapon;

 

 

“component part”, in relation to a firearm, means—

(a) any barrel, chamber or cylinder;

(b) any frame, action, body or receiver;

 

(c) any breech block, bolt or other mechanism for containing the pressure of discharge at the rear of the chamber;

(d) any part of a firearm which directly bears the pressure caused by firing;

and

(e) any magazine;

BR&PC, please see below the latest information regarding travel through Ireland with firearms. kindly inform club members and avid shooters that this information can be found on the link below. 

Please click here - latest information regarding travel through Ireland

It has come to the attention of Firearms & Explosives Branch that a number of handguns held on certificate have a slightly lengthened barrel fitted with a screw on cap. When removed this cap can facilitate the fitting of a sound moderator. Please be aware that fitting a sound moderator to a handgun is not authorised by Firearms & Explosives Branch under any circumstances.

Ballymena Rifle and Pistol Club have been asked to explain clearly to our members and guests that it is never permissible to use a sound moderator with any handgun.

Ballymena Rifle and Pistol Club wish to ensure that their members are aware that they are not permitted to use handguns with sound moderators. Should you become aware of anyone doing so it would be important to contact Firearms & Explosives Branch immediately and report the matter.

Thank you all for your continued efforts to promote safe ownership and use of firearms.

This is to advise you that we have recently seen an increase in the theft of firearms and ammunition from domestic addresses. 
I would be grateful if you could remind your customers/members of their responsibility in terms of the security of their firearms and specifically: Security Recommendations when away from premises 

1. Ensure keys to gun cabinets are kept in secure location . 

2. Do not highlight the fact that firearms are kept at your address (social media/house unoccupied for work or holidays) 

3. Surrender your firearms to a firearms dealer or alternate authorised secure storage for safe keeping when away from your premises for periods in excess of one week. 

4. Ensure your premises have sufficient security i.e. sensor lights, alarm, locks on doors to prevent unauthorised access. 

5. Ensure you comply with the security conditions on page 1 of your Firearm Certificate at all times.