Firearms Project Community Discussion Sessions: FCAF update

[Gillie]

Well I have just got back from the New Plymouth meeting (only maybe ~15 attendees). A very frank and open discussion about how Police are administering the act and what/how improvements could be made. Overriding themes were improving consistency (in everything from handling applications, to permit approval times, in vetting and referee interviews, in assessing security requirements, etc.), and also improving communication (both with the shooting community and particularly the media).

One of the suggestions was that when Police (NOT their Union) could post communication bulletins on their website i.e. when they are asked to comment or are interviewed for something a transcript of the discussion could be posted to take out the media bias in only quoting a small proportion of a discussion (potentially out of context), or they could write their own firearms update blog (license application numbers, firearm import numbers, firearms related offences, security threats and failures, etc.) basically along the lines on what KiwiGunBlog does but do it themselves.

A whole bunch of other specific points were brought up and discussed as well around forms, vetting approach, criminal misuse and sentencing, etc. Yes, the timing and communication of the meetings was discussed as well.

Mike was certainly approachable and it was good to see him take direct points (without watering them down) and acknowledge improvements that could be made.

I hope that they take our feedback on board and suitable improvements happen.


Very interesting to hear Mike talk and explain the new practical portion of new licence application process. It will be interesting to see this get implemented.