Long-gun registry survives narrow vote

Canada’s long-gun registry narrowly survived a Sept. 22 vote of MPs.
Kenora MP Greg Rickford was disappointed in the vote but said it’s a clear indication that the Conservative government is closer to dismantling the long-gun registry.
“People now have a better understanding of exactly what this debate is all about,” Rickford said.
Contrary to other police departments across the country, Nishnawbe Aski Police Service took no position on the registry issue.
“Other police services have different jurisdictions,” said NAPS Sgt. Jackie George. “They are more urban. We police First Nations where community people rely on sustenance from hunting.”
For this reason, there are a lot of firearms on First Nations, she said, adding the firearms should be registered as the registry does have authority in First Nations. So does the firearms act.
“You always try to be aware of firearms of any type that could be impeding our way of assisting people,” George said.
She said firearm registration and licensing is a safety issue.
“Registration enhances the owner’s accountability for safe storage and use,” George said.
She also shared four firearm safety rules people should follow:
• Treat all firearms as if they are loaded;
• Never let the muzzle of a firearm point at anything you do not want to destroy or kill;
• Keep your finger straight and off the trigger until your sights are on the target and you intend to shoot; and
• Always be absolutely sure of your target and what is behind it.