JAMBAR calls on Justice Minister to provide proof that Firearms Act contributes to reduction in murders

September 24, 2026

President of the Jamaican Bar Association, Tenneshia Watkins has called on Justice Minister Delroy Chuck to provide proof that the New Firearms Act contributes to a reduction in murders.

Speaking recently during the Judiciary’s Eastern Region Assize Church service, Mr. Chuck said a number of persons in both law enforcement and political circles are of the view that the Act is achieving its purpose.

This despite concerns from members of the legal fraternity that the act does not provide incentives for lesser sentences to offenders who opt to plead guilty.

Several attorneys staged a silent protest outside the Supreme Court in Kingston yesterday, to highlight their concerns with the legislation.

Speaking to IRIE FM News, Ms. Watkins explained that while the association welcomes the national decline in murders, it is concerned about the minister’s statement on the gun law.

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Ms. Watkins clarified that JAMBAR’s position on the Firearms Act does not mean that the group wants the Government to be soft on crime.

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The Justice Minister will meet with JAMBAR and the Advocates Association this afternoon.