Kelly Pierce, a resident of Yellowknife, enjoys using her Plainfield Machine M1 Carbine firearm for recreational target practice at the shooting range. However, this particular firearm is among the banned firearms in Canada and is subject to a federal gun buyback program. The Canadian government requires owners of such firearms to dispose of or permanently deactivate them by October 30 to avoid facing criminal charges for possessing prohibited firearms.
In the Northwest Territories (N.W.T.), the administration of the federal buyback program poses challenges as the territorial government has stated it will not oversee the process. This decision leaves gun owners like Pierce uncertain about the next steps they should take. The N.W.T. government also mentioned that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in the territory will not be part of the program.
Due to logistical hurdles, including a lack of local service providers, firearm owners in the N.W.T. have been offered the option to use mailed return kits provided by Public Safety Canada. However, specific details about other collection options tailored for northern communities remain unclear, leaving individuals like Pierce frustrated with the lack of guidance.
Jonathan Rocheleau, the president of the Yellowknife Shooting Club, highlighted the existing challenges in returning firearms, noting that it was already difficult even before the implementation of the federal buyback program. Rocheleau emphasized the importance of facilitating the disposal of firearms to prevent potential dangers if they are not properly deactivated.
Chief Ernest Betsina of Dettah expressed criticism of the federal program, citing concerns about the imposition of additional restrictions on community members. The N.W.T. government also emphasized the need for transparent communication between the federal government and Indigenous governments in the territory regarding the buyback program.
CBC News attempted to gather more information from relevant authorities and stakeholders, including Public Safety Canada, Yellowknives Dene First Nation, and N.W.T. MP Rebecca Alty’s office. However, responses were not received before the publication deadline.
Overall, the lack of clarity and support in implementing the federal buyback program in the N.W.T. raises challenges for firearm owners like Kelly Pierce and underscores the need for effective communication and logistical solutions to ensure a smooth and safe process for all involved.
