Independent Senator Andrew Mallalieu has called for mandatory minimum sentences for gun-related offences, arguing that current penalties do not reflect public concern about rising firearm crimes.

He backed the Supreme Court of Judicature (Amendment) Bill to introduce firearms courts, even as he expressed sadness at his suggestion that crimes involving firearms should carry a mandatory minimum sentence, given the current climate in the country.

“I would like to call again what I think is necessary in terms of mandatory minimum sentencing for crimes committed with a firearm. I understand that there are some [Caribbean Court of Justice] rulings or other things that need to be dealt with in order to have mandatory minimum sentences. I can’t comment on that. What I can say is that if you asked Barbadians today, the vast majority would tell you that the sentences for crimes committed with firearms need to be much harsher than they are. So I would call for mandatory minimum sentences.”