Trudeau Government Faces Gun Control Backlash

The Trudeau government is facing criticism from the gun control advocacy group, Poly Remembers, which argues that the proposed gun buyback program is inadequate and a misuse of taxpayer funds. Announced in 2020 and further refined in 2022, the current plan involves banning 1,500 models of firearms and promises a buyback for these weapons. However, Poly Remembers highlights that the list does not cover many semi-automatic rifles like the AR-15, which remain available. The group's spokesperson, Natalie Provol, a femicide survivor and advocate, emphasizes the need for a complete ban on all assault-style weapons, criticizing the government for not following through on previous commitments to finalize a comprehensive list of banned firearms. Provol recalls that the call for stricter gun laws originated nearly 35 years ago and insists that current proposals do not adequately address public safety concerns. Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc has stated the government plans to continue with the existing program but has shown no intention to expand the list of banned firearms. With upcoming elections, Poly Remembers has expressed its intention to withdraw support if no meaningful changes are made. Provol warns that the retreat from current regulations by a potential conservative government could undo efforts for safer gun control, urging the Trudeau government to take decisive action before the anniversary of a tragic incident that catalyzed these discussions.