Heather Robinson
HUMAN BEINGS celebrate for many different reasons. Some celebrate the birth of a child and others celebrate a reduction in the number of murders. But there is now an additional reason to celebrate. The Ministry of National Security has established an entity called the Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA).
In Sunday's newspapers there was an advertisement from the FLA on the subject of the 'Renewal of Firearm Licences 2006'. The notice explains the procedure that will be used for persons applying for the renewal of Firearm Licences, Certificates and Permits. Eight instructions are given and the final statement reads as follows: "Take note: No new certification and re-certification will be done at this time. Changes to the certification and renewal process are coming soon and the public will be advised on a timely basis."
WHY CELEBRATE FLA?
Some persons reading this might well be wondering why is there reason to celebrate the establishment of the FLA. Here are a few. In the first instance we can only hope that the new body will maintain a high level of credibility. In the past there were too many investigations ordered by commissioners of police into the issuing of firearm licences by divisional commanders in the Jamaica Constabulary Force. Far too many persons of questionable character were issued firearm licences.
Secondly, those divisional commanders who never accepted a cent for the issuance of such a licence will no longer be embarrassed by the actions of their corrupt colleagues.
SEEKING NEW PASTURES
On the other hand, those who have benefited from this corrupt practice might now be looking at new pastures to maintain standards of living to which they have grown accustomed. Such officers need to use this new opportunity to find legitimate additional sources of income, and if they cannot, then they should seek to retire from the force and join the civilian populace, and be treated like any normal common criminal.
Is there anyone who can give a correct guess as to the number of illegal firearms in Jamaica? I think not. But perhaps with the introduction of the Firearm Licensing Authority under the leadership of retired Chief of Staff of the Jamaica Defence Force, John Simmonds, we can hope that better days are coming. Is it too much to hope that many of the licences that slipped through the cracks of the old system will be revoked, and thus reduce the number of persons parading with legal guns who ought never to have been holders of such in the first instance?
FOCUSING ATTENTION
April 1, 2006 will herald the dawning of a new day in the history of law enforcement in Jamaica. Gone will be rumours of $500,000 and $1,000,000 bribes to divisional officers for the issuance of firearm licences. These officers can now focus their undivided attention on crime fighting and develop new strategies to further reduce the number of murders. Gone will be days when fingers are pointed at divisional officers alleging corrupt practices. Gone will be the days when officers are placed in situations of early retirement.
Any effort or action that results in the exposure and expulsion of corrupt members of the JCF is to be commended, and represents movement in the correct direction. The removal of corrupt police officers from the JCF can only serve to enhance its credibility and protect the Jamaican people.
Congratulations, therefore, are due to the Minister of National Security and all his officers who worked to ensure that Jamaica now has a Firearm Licensing Authority. May those who built monuments from the proceeds of the old system seek to develop a professional ethic. Let us celebrate the birth of the FLA, and welcome its work as of April 1 ... no fooling.
Heather Robinson is a life underwriter and former Member of Parliament.
