Explanatory Memorandum

Firearms (Northern Ireland) Order 2004

2004 No. 702

Notes on Articles

Article 72 - Forfeiture and disposal of firearms; cancellation of certificate by convicting court

Allows a court to order the forfeiture or disposal of firearms or ammunition and the cancellation of a firearm certificate. Where the court cancels a certificate it will advise the Chief Constable and he shall require the holder to surrender it. It is an offence to fail to do so. A constable may seize and detain any firearm or ammunition which is the subject of a forfeiture order. The Chief Constable may order the destruction of any firearm surrendered, seized, etc. for which a firearm certificate has not been granted. A court of summary jurisdiction may, on application of the Chief Constable, order the destruction of any firearm or ammunition seized under the Order. Where the holder of a firearm or ammunition is convicted of an offence under Article 48(4) or 56(3) the court may make an order as to their forfeiture.  The Article provides for an appeal against the order of the court.