The tabling of the Integrity Commission’s report on the Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA) has understandably generated significant public interest and concern. The Government recognises the importance of the work of the Integrity Commission as a critical mechanism for accountability and transparency within the public sector.
The Ministry is committed to responsible firearm ownership through strict regulation, characterised by transparent and auditable systems, underpinned by the tenets of good governance and decisions that are informed by evidence, and with full regard to the protections afforded by Jamaica’s constitutional and legal framework.
As the institution responsible for regulating firearms and ammunition, the FLA must maintain the highest standards of governance, accountability, transparency, and operational integrity.
The issues raised in the report are therefore being treated with the seriousness they warrant. It is important, however, that the matters raised are examined within the appropriate timeline and context.
The Integrity Commission’s investigation commenced in 2021. During that period, the FLA was already engaged in a process of institutional reform, aimed at improving its systems for oversight and internal controls.
Since 2017, with the appointment of the current Chief Executive Officer (CEO), under the direction of the Board, the FLA has been on a deliberate path of reform and clean up firearm regulation in Jamaica, targeting specific practices that could enable corruption, and remain focused on improving accountability systems, strengthening operational processes, enhancing vetting mechanisms, and addressing areas of vulnerability. These efforts have been aimed at ensuring that the Authority operates in a manner consistent with the standards expected of a modern regulatory institution.
The existing governance framework of the Firearm Licensing Authority must also be clearly understood. The FLA operates under a Board-led accountability structure established by law. The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for the administration and day-to-day management of the Authority and reports to the Board of Directors. The Board provides strategic oversight and makes decisions within its statutory mandate. The Board, in turn, reports to the Minister of National Security and Peace.
This framework ensures appropriate separation of responsibilities and that decisions relating to the operations of the Authority, including the issuance, variation and revocation of firearm licences, are subject to the established governance processes.
The integrity of the FLA has also withstood the test of legal scrutiny in countless court cases, in which firearm records contributed greatly to the outcome of those matters. There have been several high-profile convictions which were anchored by the data and records provided by the Authority. The outcome of those matters further demonstrates that there are sound systems and processes guiding decisions at the FLA. Additionally, several processes are in keeping with international standards and approved by relevant bodies.
Prior to the tabling of the Integrity Commission’s report, the Ministry had commenced a review of the FLA’s inventory management systems. Following an initial inspection of the Authority’s processes and facilities, the Ministry was satisfied that systems were in place to account for firearms in the custody of the Authority.
Now that the Ministry has the benefit of the full report from the Integrity Commission, along with the significant public interest in this matter and the critical role of the FLA in national security, the Ministry will undertake a further review of the Authority’s systems of accountability, inventory management, and operational controls. This review will ensure that the Authority’s processes continue to meet the required standards of transparency, security, and public confidence.
This process will continue as the Ministry advances efforts to conclude its plans to relocate the FLA to a new location, where a modern purpose-built facility will be constructed, one that provides the required storage capacity, improves operational efficiency, and strengthens oversight mechanisms.
At the same time, I recognise the continued work of the officers of the Firearm Licensing Authority and continue to have full confidence in the CEO Mr. Shane Dalling, his team, the past members of the Board, former Chairpersons and the present Board led by Justice Mr. Glenworth Brown. Successive Boards have overseen a period of significant reform aimed at strengthening the institution’s systems, improving accountability, and enhancing public confidence in its operations.
The Government remains committed to ensuring that Jamaica’s firearms regulatory framework operates with the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and professionalism. Where improvements are required, they will be implemented.