CoP to cut backlog on firearm applications

Commissioner of Police (CoP) Gary Griffith has assured he was working on clearing the backlog of 13,000 people who had applied for firearms.

On Friday, during a meeting with the Arima Businessmen Association at Arima Town Hall, Griffith said the police were working on a database that would ensure confidentiality for those applying for firearms. This was one of the concerns raised by businessman Roger Belix who said he knew four people who were killed soon after applying for and receiving licensed guns for protection.

Belix said he tried to warn the deceased about applying for firearms. He said he was concerned that between applying, receiving approval and submitting paperwork to the CoP, private information could be leaked in the process.

Griffith said this was being addressed through a database as he again said he would ensure applications are reviewed.

"It is not the place of the CoP to decide whether a person should have a firearm or not. Whether everyone or no one should have one is irrelevant, my view is insignificant. The law states that every law abiding citizen who has requested it and who has fulfilled the criteria, it is my duty to give you a firearm. My job is to adhere to the law. I assure you it will be done and do not pay anyone, please. It is unfortunate and I do apologise to the 13,000 people who have been put on hold."

He also said applicants should keep in mind if there has been a change in their address, marital status or certificate of character, they should update their application.

"I am not asking you to reapply, that would be unfair."

The CoP said 85 per cent of the applications for firearms were from men, but that women could also apply for licences.

"There is absolutely nothing to prevent a female from applying. To apply men have to give their address, their information and approval from your wife, but if a woman applies she does not need the approval of her husband."

Griffith also said it was his view that it made no sense for pepper spray to illegal weapon. He said it was not a lethal weapon and thousands of women in other countries were saved from being raped, killed or kidnapped each year because they carried pepper spray for protection.

"Again it is not for me as CoP to say it is illegal. Tasers, however, are illegal because they can be lethal if used in the wrong way."