The Canadian government has acknowledged learning valuable lessons from a trial initiative aimed at purchasing prohibited firearms from owners, which had low participation rates. In response to the ban on approximately 2,500 makes and models of what is termed as “assault-style” firearms since 2020, the government emphasized that these weapons are intended for military use rather than hunting or sport shooting.
Despite facing criticism from Opposition Conservatives and gun-rights organizations, the government emphasized its commitment to offering fair compensation through a buyback program for these firearms. A six-week voluntary pilot project was initiated in the Cape Breton area of Nova Scotia this autumn to test the buyback process. Initially optimistic about collecting around 200 firearms, officials were surprised as only 25 guns were turned in and subsequently destroyed, with the participation of 16 individuals.
The Department of Public Safety disclosed that the pilot project served as an opportunity to evaluate the program’s procedures, identify any shortcomings, and refine the system before its nationwide implementation. Notably, the government acknowledged encountering challenges during the pilot, such as the necessity for a more streamlined registration process and enhanced guidance for participants. Issues with the online portal functionality were also highlighted, which may have caused confusion for some individuals engaging in the program.
Furthermore, the government announced its commitment to allocate up to $12.4 million to support Quebec in implementing its buyback program for banned firearms. Quebec’s Public Security Minister, Ian Lafrenière, expressed the province’s endorsement of the federal initiative, emphasizing its role in enhancing community safety. The deadline for possessing the outlawed firearms under an amnesty period has been extended multiple times, with the current deadline set for October 30, 2026.