Brantford police not participating in federal gun buyback program

Police in Brantford say it will not be participating in the Assault-Style Firearm Compensation Program which began last Monday and will not be offering firearm collection or storage appointments as part of the initiative.

Branford officers say the program is being administered at the federal level, and participation by local police services is not mandated.

Since May 2020, Ottawa has outlawed about 2,500 types of guns on the basis they belong only on the battlefield. The federal government says the national buyback program, which could cost more than $700 million, will provide owners fair compensation for outlawed firearms.

The federal government has budgeted more than $742 million for the overall cost of the program.

Public Safety Canada said Saturday that firearm licence holders will be notified of the declaration period and how to take part.

“These are firearms designed for war, for killing people,” said Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree. “They have no place in our communities.”

Owners of banned firearms will have until March 31 to declare interest in the federal program.

While the Brantford Police Service said it will not be directly involved in the compensation or collection process, they will continue to work with policing partners and all levels of government on matters related to public safety and lawful firearms regulation.

With files from The Canadian Press

With files from Christopher Reynolds in Montreal

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