In a move that demonstrates responsiveness to public feedback, the government of Dominica has put a planned hike to firearm license fees on hold, announcing it will first launch extensive consultations with gun owners, industry representatives and other key stakeholders before moving forward with any changes.
Speaking at a recent press briefing, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit clarified the original intent behind the fee increase, which was first unveiled as part of the 2026–2027 national budget presentation. Contrary to assumptions that the adjustment was designed to boost government revenue, Skerrit emphasized that the policy was framed as a mechanism to reinforce personal accountability among individuals who hold the legal privilege of owning and carrying a firearm.
However, widespread concerns raised by multiple groups—including individual firearm owners, licensed firearm suppliers, and the Police Welfare Association—compelled the national Cabinet to hit pause on immediate implementation of the new fee structure. Skerrit noted that stakeholders have already put forward a range of constructive recommendations covering critical areas of firearms governance, from improved firearms safety training protocols to more secure storage requirements and updated regulatory frameworks for legally held weapons.
Following a review of these submitted concerns and ideas, Cabinet formally approved the suspension of the fee increase and authorized the launch of a broad, inclusive consultation process focused on comprehensive reform of the firearms licensing system. The first gathering with participating stakeholders is scheduled to be held in the near future.
Skerrit framed the decision to revisit the policy as a reflection of the administration’s commitment to open governance. When stakeholders raise legitimate, evidence-based concerns about the practical impact of proposed government policies, he said, the administration is willing and prepared to re-evaluate its decisions to craft more effective, widely supported outcomes.