The age at which youngsters can obtain a permit to use a firearm for sport has been lowered from 16 to 14. The permit holder will, however, only be able to practise under supervision and in approved shooting ranges.

The regulations have just been changed following an outcry by several sports organisations which wanted young athletes to start training at an earlier age.

A spokesman for the Justice and Home Affairs Ministry said the rules are in line with the government's policy to promote sporting activities in which Malta has already registered significant successes in the past.

The new measure will be of benefit to aspiring young athletes interested in shooting disciplines and will also allow clubs to come up with adequate training programmes, the spokesman added.

Following consultation with various stakeholders, the ministry ensured that the regulations - Legal Notice 144 of 2008, Firearms Practice Permits for Minors Regulations - strike the right balance between the interest of the sporting community and the peace of mind of Maltese citizens in the use of, and access to, firearms.

All applications must be approved by the Malta Sports Council before any recommendation by the Weapons Board is entertained.

A permit issued under these regulations will only allow shooting on a range. No weapons can be carried or used outside licensed ranges.

"The ministry is confident that these regulations, coupled with the cooperation shown by various administrative bodies and sporting clubs, have filled an important vacuum whereby prospective talent is allowed the opportunity to mature and develop.

The harsh penalties introduced act as a strong deterrent against abuse," the spokesman said.

A breach of the regulations would make the perpetrator liable to the provisions stipulated in the Arms Act (Cap 480) - article 51, which include fines and even imprisonment.