Introduction

In a decisive move to bolster gun control, the Liberal government has moved to ban an additional 324 varieties of firearms, emphasizing that these weapons belong on the battlefield, not in the hands of hunters or sport shooters. This latest ban is part of a larger strategy to address the proliferation of assault-style firearms in Canada.

Previous Efforts

This announcement builds on previous efforts from May 2020, when a sweeping ban was implemented on 1,500 makes and models of firearms. As the landscape of gun ownership evolved, that original number has ballooned to over 2,000 as authorities continue to identify new variants of restricted guns.

Response from Advocates

The government’s latest decision responds to concerns from gun-control advocates, especially regarding the existence of many assault-style firearms that slipped through the cracks of the 2020 legislation. Gun-control advocates claim that limiting access to such firearms is crucial for public safety.

Buyback Program

In an interesting twist, the federal government revealed that it is collaborating with provinces, territories, and law enforcement on a structured buyback program for these prohibited weapons from individual owners. This initiative is expected to aid in the responsible disposal and control of the banned firearms.

Support for Ukraine

Notably, the government has also committed to assisting the Ukrainian government in identifying how these newly banned firearms could be donated to support Ukraine in its ongoing fight against Russia’s invasion. This decision aligns with international efforts to bolster Ukraine’s defensive capabilities amid a challenging and evolving crisis.

Reflection and Future Outlook

As these developments unfold, they coincide with the somber reflection on the 35th anniversary of the tragic École Polytechnique shooting, where a gunman killed 19 women, serving as a haunting reminder of the need for stringent gun control measures.

Conclusion

Stay tuned as we continue to follow this evolving situation, including the potential implications for gun ownership in Canada and the international response to the ongoing war in Ukraine.