A Growing Number of Canadian Police Forces Opting Out of Federal Gun Buyback Program
York Region Police Chief Jim MacSween has announced that the force will not be participating in the Government of Canada’s Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program, joining the ranks of other police forces choosing to focus on alternative strategies to combat gun violence.
Chief MacSween emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of firearm-related violence in York Region, specifically targeting the illegal importation, distribution, and use of illicit firearms. The police force intends to prioritize enforcement and prosecution efforts against repeat violent offenders and violent crimes to enhance community safety.
This decision aligns with Toronto police, who recently declared their non-participation in the buyback program, alongside the Ontario Provincial Police. The movement against the federal initiative has gained momentum, with provinces such as Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Newfoundland and Labrador also opting out.
Gun owners with prohibited firearms have until the end of March to express their interest in the compensation program, designed to provide financial incentives for surrendering or permanently deactivating their weapons. The initial response has seen over 22,000 firearms reported to Public Safety Canada within the first week of the program’s launch.
Despite some logistical concerns due to the lack of cooperation from certain provinces and police forces, Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree remains optimistic about the success of the buyback program.
While supporters of stricter gun control view the program positively, critics, including firearm rights advocates and the federal Conservatives, argue that it is a misallocation of taxpayer funds, targeting law-abiding gun owners.
The federal government has prohibited approximately 2,500 types of firearms since May 2020, including the AR-15, citing that such weapons are only suitable for military use.