October 26, 2026

Opposition welcomes NSC recommendations to amend the Firearms Act

The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) has welcomed the National Security Council’s recommendations to amend the Firearms Act by distinguishing toy guns from real firearms and reviewing cases involving children.

Yesterday, the Office of the Prime Minister revealed in a statement that several amendments were agreed on at the recent meeting of the National Security Council (NSC).

It was recommended that persons convicted of illegal possession of a firearm should now face a new minimum sentence of 20 years in prison instead of the current 15 years.

The NSC says this is keeping with its commitment to refine the Firearms Act, to make it tougher while protecting the innocent and vulnerable.

The Council also agreed that further consideration should be given to how cases involving children found with illegal firearms are handled.

It also noted that the concerns raised regarding imitation firearms will be clearly addressed to distinguish between toy guns and guns designed to realistically imitate actual weapons.

Speaking with IRIE FM News, Opposition Spokesperson on Justice, Zuleika Jess said distinguishing between toy guns and imitation firearms will help to strengthen the legislation.

She noted that the opposition is relieved that the NSC will be giving further consideration to how cases involving children found with illegal firearms are handled.