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endorsing a recommendation that was made by a number of
earlier reports (for other stated reasons).
b.
We also recommend
that while the JCF should phase out
from general use weapons whose use is not easily traceable,
we recognise that some units of the JCF will necessarily be
obliged to continue their use. But in order to promote
greater accountability by these units, new and better
administrative systems should be put in place for the
purpose of after-action identification of the users of these
types of weapons.
c.
We recommend
that the JCF, like the JDF, adopt the
“same person same weapon” policy. That is to say, that for
the service life of a weapon, it is assigned to the same
person. We
strongly recommend
that this policy be
immediately implemented in respect of the Mobile Reserve
and other special operational units.
d.
Specifically,
we recommend
that:-
(i)
The issuing officer and the supervisor be made
accountable for the state of the records (the Firearms
Register).
(ii)
The PCOA be adequately resourced to be able to
inspect the Firearms Register of all divisions and
special operations units at least once per year.
(iii)
There must be formal written responses by the
responsible commanders to the inspection reports of
the PCOA.
(iv) All firearm related violations and the related
disciplinary actions or inactions be noted on the
personal files of the offenders.