The year’s legislative activity is detailed in the “Quarterly Reports” on our website, and in Report.

Suffice it to say that we are in a period when, to use the popular expression, a “perfect storm” is occurring in our world and indeed in Society.

Some firearms legislation has passed, but what is in the pipeline has been frozen for the moment.

Police training and the licensing process are receiving much attention. I attended a day at the College of Policing for the launch of the new FEO training course. This is very complete and is a large step towards consistent process across all FLDs. The medical review process and “suitability” are included.

Use of lead in ammunition continues under review. HSE expect to submit their report to Government in October based on the RAC and SEAC findings, including from their public consultations. We hope to have continuing use of lead and lead core rifle ammunition on ranges with the required protocols in place and for pest control. For deer a change to non lead is expected. There will be difficulty in using lead shot in shotguns except for high level athletes. Bismuth and Bismuth alloys seem to be the option for those who do not wish to use steel. I have written about this in the earlier updates.

Once HSE have submitted their report to Government our final debate will be with them.

We are involved in all of this activity to which calm, solid, considered responses are needed and the continuing collaboration we have with the many other associations and entities involved, and especially BSSC.

Further reports follow as and when practicable.

DS