Countryside Alliance calls on Dyfed Powys Police to reform the Firearms Licensing Department

The Countryside Alliance is calling for change within Dyfed Powys Firearms Licensing Department after meeting Dafydd Llywelyn, Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Dyfed Powys, following an increasing number of member complaints and high levels of dissatisfaction.

Rachel Evans, Countryside Alliance Director for Wales, has dealt with an increasing number of calls from members in the last 18 months. Following an initial meeting held between the Alliance and the head of the firearms department in October 2017, there has been no communication since.

Rachel Evans said: "The lack of progress made within the department, has left the Countryside Alliance with no other option but to approach the PCC to register our concerns.

"One member has contacted the licensing department on a fortnightly basis for over 12 months only to be continuously told their file would be seen to next. This appears to be the running theme and it needs to be raised at the highest level.

"A few members have mentioned feeling intimidated by the process, they are nervous about questioning their application or renewal delay in fear of being put at the bottom of the pile. This attitude and approach to work is unacceptable and unprofessional."

The Alliance has suggested the following procedures are put in place:

• An improved structure of communication with certificate holders who will be notified by letter at agreed stages of their query. Currently members are not receiving any information whatsoever on the current status of their query resulting in an increased number of calls in to the firearms department taking up precious resources.


• A detailed account of the number of outstanding queries ranging from 3 months to in excess of 18 months and a progress report monthly to be forwarded to the PCC.

Rachel Evans said: "It was an extremely honest and open meeting with Dafydd Llywelyn PCC and I am confident that the commissioner will strive to improve the service to help the department get back on track."

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said: "Dyfed Powys is a rural force and deals with a large number of firearms licence applications, but it is disappointing to hear of the concerns being raised. I am committed to ensuring improvements are made and additional resources have been agreed. I have had positive meetings with the Firearms Licensing Department and I am reassured that constructive changes have been made. There is a need to balance the ease of an application process with public safety and I am confident that over the coming months licence holders will feel a positive difference in the service provided."