Firearms Control Board Launches Public Education Webinar Series

The Firearms and Ammunition Control Board (FACB) through the Ministry of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries, has launched a series of webinars aimed at educating the public on the role of the FACB, and the importance of strengthening the national framework for firearm control. It is the hope that these sessions would provide valuable insights into the legal, social, and safety aspects of firearm ownership while emphasizing the shared responsibility of citizens to promote accountability and reduce risks. Minister of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries Kareem Musa, elaborated on the purpose of the webinar.

Kareem Musa, Minister of Home Affairs: “We have to understand that firearms, it’s a reality. It’s a fact of life. Where Belize is currently geographically positioned in Central America, we have our northern neighbors, western and southern neighbors, all along extensive borderlines where it is extremely easy for illegal firearms to enter our country. And so this evening we’ll be looking at both the aspect of the fact that there are many illegal firearms and ammunition in the country, while at the same time looking at a much improved legal firearms and ammunition control mechanism. So we’re looking at both the illegal and legal at the very same time. Because as you all know, firearms plays a multifaceted role in our national security framework, serving as tools for law enforcement. So our police officers, of course, have weapons. They have firearms, so it’s a means of personal protection for them, as well as for private citizens to have personal protection. And the third aspect, of course, unfortunately, many illegal weapons enter our country and are used for criminal and illegal activities.”

Featuring expert discussions, real-life experiences, and interactive elements, the webinars seek to foster a deeper understanding of firearms as tools that require responsible use and regulation. Magistrate Manon Dennison explained that applications can be denied where deemed necessary. 

Manon Dennison, Magistrate: “What are some clear indicators for an application to be denied? If an application was denied, will the board provide a detailed written reason for the denial?”

“Emphasis being placed on detail, we will provide a reason whether or not it is detailed enoug

The webinar series continues next week.