The Canadian government has acknowledged taking valuable insights from a test initiative aimed at purchasing prohibited firearms from owners, which resulted in limited participation. Since 2020, approximately 2,500 varieties of firearms classified as “assault-style” have been banned by Ottawa, citing their military design unsuitable for hunting or sports shooting. The ban faced criticism from Opposition Conservatives and gun rights organizations. The government has emphasized its intention to buy back these firearms to provide fair compensation to owners.
A voluntary pilot project was initiated in the Cape Breton region of Nova Scotia this autumn to assess the process of the buyback program. Expecting to gather around 200 firearms during the six-week trial, officials were surprised when only 25 firearms were collected and disposed of, as revealed by the Department of Public Safety on Wednesday. Following queries, the department disclosed that 16 individuals had participated in the program but did not specify the types of firearms surrendered during the pilot phase.
Regarding the initiative’s outcomes, Simon Lafortune, spokesperson for Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangare, indicated that the program aimed to evaluate its operations, enhance operational efficiency, and address any potential challenges before its nationwide implementation.
The government identified various “lessons learned” from the pilot, emphasizing the necessity for a more streamlined registration process and enhanced guidance for participants. Additionally, the test highlighted certain “functional gaps” in the online platform that may have posed difficulties for some participants.
Furthermore, the government announced its commitment to allocate up to $12.4 million to assist Quebec in covering the expenses associated with implementing the buyback program in the province. Quebec’s Public Security Minister Ian Lafrenière expressed support for the federal initiative, considering it a positive step toward enhancing community safety.
The amnesty period for possessing the prohibited firearms has been extended multiple times, with the current deadline set for October 30, 2026.