HOEPPNER INTRODUCES PRIVATE MEMBERS’ BILL TO REPEAL WASTEFUL LONG-GUN REGISTRY

May 15, 2009

Ottawa, May 15, 2009 – Today in the House of Commons, Candice Hoeppner, Member of Parliament for Portage–Lisgar, introduced legislation that would eliminate the requirement for Canadians to register their non-restricted firearms. “The current long-gun registry unfairly targets our hard-working farmers, hunters and sport shooters, but not criminals,” said Hoeppner. “This bill will eliminate, once and for all, this costly registry, while our government continues to focus its attention on introducing measures to tackle crime and keep guns out of the hands of violent criminals.”

The bill will repeal the requirement to register non-restricted long-guns. Individuals will still be required to have a valid firearms license, and go through a police background check and safety training in order to purchase or possess firearms and to purchase ammunition. Individuals will also continue to be required to register prohibited and restricted firearms, such as handguns. Police officers will be able to determine who is and is not in legal possession of firearms through a quick check of the Canadian Police Information Centre.

Garry Breitkreuz, Member of Parliament for Yorkton - Melville, seconded Mrs. Hoeppner’s bill and said, “This is a clear and straightforward bill that will give all Members of the House, Government and Opposition members alike an opportunity to vote to repeal the long-gun registry as quickly as possible.” Hoeppner added “I look forward to working with all members from both sides of the House to ensure this bill’s successful passage.”