Prime Minister Andrew Holness says the Government intends to properly structure and regulate firearm ownership and usage in the country.

A Joint Select Committee of Parliament has been considering the Firearms Act, which will, among other things, bring tougher penalties for breaches.

Mr. Holness says he detects a fear about the new law among legal firearm holders.

However, he is assuring that it is not the intention to put an end to the sport of rifle shooting and related activities nor the Jamaica Rifle Association.

According to him, he anticipates a far better regulated space for the private ownership of firearms.

Mr. Holness states that the country faces a challenge of unregistered firearms entering the country and falling into the hands of persons whose sole intent is to take lives.

He says the society is divided on how to deal with the problem of illegal guns.

He reiterates the call for a united voice in how the country deals with those who possess illegal firearms.