The federal government is “looking at a variety of options” to carry out a planned buyback of prohibited firearms, including obtaining outside help, says Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino.
The Liberal government banned some 1,500 models and variants of firearms, including the AR-15 and Ruger Mini-14, through a court order in May 2020 on the grounds that they have no place in hunting or shooting. sports.
The proposed buyback program would require owners to sell these firearms to the government or render them unusable at federal expense.
The Canadian Association of Police Chiefs has urged the Liberal government not to rely on under-resourced police forces to run the next programme.
Regina Police Chief Evan Bray, who appeared on behalf of the association in a House of Commons committee in October, said the buyback will be an administrative process, not a police issue, involving a great deal of work. .
He suggested leveraging another organization, or courier or mail services, to help people turn in their firearms, which would allow police to focus on lawbreakers, as well as border integrity, smuggling and the traffic.
In a recent interview, Mendicino said he hopes to have some news on the shape of the program early this year.
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“We are looking at a variety of options when it comes to complying with the buyback program. But we are taking the time to get it right,” he told The Canadian Press.
“It’s going to involve a number of critical stakeholders and partners, including law enforcement. But we’re also working with other levels of government. We’re working with industry leaders, we’re working with potential third parties. So we’re exploring all these options”.
The government has proposed a perennial definition of a prohibited assault-style firearm to be enshrined in gun control legislation, known as Bill C-21, which is being considered by the Commons committee.
Feds looking at ‘variety of options’ for planned firearm buyback program: @marcomendicino. #CDNPoli #ArmsControl
Among other technical specifications related to barrel diameter and muzzle energy, the proposed definition includes a center-fire semi-automatic rifle or shotgun designed with a detachable magazine that can hold more than five rounds.
Conservative MPs and some gun advocates say the push to ban assault weapons unfairly targets many commonly used rifles and shotguns.
The committee is reviewing the most recent list of firearms that would meet the definition.
There is debate about what exactly is included and what is not, because the definition applies only to some variations of certain models that actually meet the criteria: weapons that the government considers unsuitable for civilian use.
Mendicino indicated that financial compensation through the buy-back program will be available for all firearms that fall within the definition.
“We respect law-abiding gun owners, including hunters, farmers, and indigenous people. And we will take a fair and equitable approach when it comes to compensating them for firearms that are ultimately determined to be prohibited by Bill C-21,” he said.
“We are mindful of the need to be transparent and fiscally prudent when it comes to the creation and launch, and eventual delivery, of the buyback program.”
The proposed definition of an assault-style firearm was brought up in committee as an amendment to the gun bill after witness testimony was completed. As a result, MPs are proposing up to eight additional sessions on the amendment, including a possible trip north to hear indigenous witnesses.
Mendicino said the government supports the committee’s work and would gladly testify on the amendment.
“I take any opportunity to work with parliamentarians, regardless of party line, to pass this legislation. I strongly believe it will help better protect our communities from gun violence.”
Introducing the bill earlier this year, the Liberals announced a plan to implement a freeze on the import, purchase, sale or transfer of firearms.
Federal regulations intended to limit the number of firearms in Canada are already in effect.
The bill contains measures that would strengthen the freezing of firearms. The legislation would also allow for the removal of gun licenses for people who commit domestic violence or engage in criminal harassment, such as stalking, as well as increase the maximum sentences for gun smuggling and trafficking from 10 to 14 years.
Mendicino also points to other elements of the federal gun control strategy, including money to help the Canada Border Services Agency detect gun smuggling, efforts with the United States to break up firearms trafficking networks, and Community funding to prevent gun crime before it starts.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on January 1, 2023.