Farmers and recreational shooters should not be punished for the irresponsible actions of others according to Nationals Member for Cowper Luke Hartsuyker.
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His statement of support was made during a visit to the Coffs Rifle Club range on Friday where, along with Senator Bridget McKenzie, he met local recreational shooters to talk about issues facing the shooting and hunting sector.
“I have been contacted by numerous local firearms owners and shooters who are concerned about the tone of current public debate about firearms ownership and hunting,” Mr Hartsuyker said.
“Senator McKenzie has been a strong supporter of the recreational shooting sector, so I wanted her to meet with Mid North Coast shooters to hear their perspective.
“The Martin Place siege has put firearm regulation back in the spotlight. Based on a recommendation from the Martin Place Siege Joint Review the Federal and State Governments are currently updating the technical elements of the National Firearms Agreement.
“While this is a sensible step and one I support, some of the accompanying commentary from media outlets and anti-gun activists has bordered on hysterical.
“Licensed firearms owners are not the problem, they are responsible law-abiding members of our community and part of a broader industry that contributes more than $1 billion a year to Australia’s economy.
“Most shooters accept that the use of firearms must be regulated and that owners need to be responsible citizens, but licenced shooters do not need more red tape and they should be treated with respect and understanding like anyone else.
Senator McKenzie welcomed the opportunity to meet with members of the Rifle Club.
“Law-abiding shooters deserve to have their voice heard,” Senator McKenzie said.
“Until recently shooters and industry representatives were locked out of the consultation process on firearms regulation, a process which directly impacts on their ability to earn a living or participate in lawful recreational pursuits.
“The Nationals fought hard to ensure there is genuine and meaningful consultation with shooters and the firearms industry and I am pleased that the Federal Justice Minister has listened and agreed to give shooters a voice through the new Industry Reference Group.”
