FLA Opens New Office in St. Ann, Improves Security Measures

Notable changes have been made to the application process for a licensed firearm, as the FLA implements new measures to filter the system. FLA boss Shane Dalling says the process has been digitized and several technologies introduced to ensure no unfit person is granted a gun licence. The Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA) is intensifying its application and approval process, by implementing more stringent and efficient measures to avoid granting gun licences to persons with questionable backgrounds. 

This follows a recent report from the integrity commission revealing that firearm licences were allegedly granted to several persons with criminal records. However, FLA’s Chief Executive Officer Shane Dalling is seemingly confident that will be no more, as he announced a new strategy to screen persons. Dalling says the FLA will no longer need to wait months for a criminal report, thus the approval process may be shorter. 

He also says the organization has acquired an engraving machine. National security minister dr. Horace Chang says the improved process, coupled with the new firearms bill will filter the illegal guns out of the system. The authority opened its fourth location on Friday in St. Ann, to cater to persons from Trelawny, St. Ann and St. Mary. 

Reporter: Velonique Bowen