FLA Board Resigns

The members of the Board of the Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA) have submitted their resignations to National Security Minister, Hon. Robert Montague.

This follows debriefing sessions by Prime Minister the Most. Hon. Andrew Holness and Minister Montague with FLA Chairman, Dennis Wright, regarding irregularities surrounding the issuance of firearm licences to people deemed unfit.

Speaking at a post-Cabinet press briefing on Wednesday (Aug. 2), Minister of Education, Youth and Information, Senator the Hon. Ruel Reid, informed that the board, in its letter, said the members are stepping down to protect their integrity and that of the institution.

“In addition, the members felt that the current debate is distracting from the Government’s commendable crime-fighting strategies, noting that a reduction in crime and violence will be of great benefit to all Jamaicans,” he said.

He noted that Minister Montague thanked the board for their service to Jamaica.

Meanwhile, Senator Reid announced that the FLA will not be issuing any approvals for gun licences or permits for the next seven working days.

He said that over the same period (seven working days), the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), FLA, Shane Dalling, will provide the Minister with an update on the progress of the Assessment Report on the Firearm Licensing Authority 2017 (Allen Report), and the status of the implementation of the recommendations.

In addition, the CEO and the FLA staff must give full support to the Justice Seymour Panton Review Panel to ensure full transparency and the integrity of the FLA. He added that Cabinet will also be briefed on the developments.

Also, Minister Montague is apologising to the public at large, especially the bird and sport shooters for any inconveniences they may experience during this transition period at the FLA.

The FLA was established in 2006 to take over responsibility for the granting and renewing of firearm licences from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).