The Canadian government’s pilot project to buy back outlawed assault-style firearms from owners has yielded a significantly lower uptake than anticipated, collecting only 25 firearms out of an expected 200.
Assault-Style Firearms Buyback Pilot Project Results
Ottawa banned approximately 2,500 makes and models of assault-style firearms in 2020, citing their design for warfare rather than civilian use. The decision faced opposition from Conservative parties and firearms-rights groups, prompting the government to offer a buyback program as a means of compensation.
A six-week pilot project, conducted in the Cape Breton region of Nova Scotia this fall, aimed to test the program’s processes. Officials initially hoped to collect around 200 firearms.
The Department of Public Safety revealed Wednesday that only 25 firearms were collected and destroyed during the trial period.
“It was an opportunity to test the program’s processes and systems, confirm what works well and identify and address any potential gaps or challenges before the program opens nationwide,” said Simon Lafortune, spokesperson for Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangare, in a statement.
The government identified several areas for improvement, including the need for a clearer registration process and more detailed instructions. Functional gaps were also found within the online portal, potentially causing confusion for participants.
Quebec Funding and Amnesty Extension
The government also announced Wednesday it will provide up to $12.4 million to Quebec to cover costs associated with running the buyback program within the province.
Quebec Public Security Minister Ian Lafrenière stated the province supports the federal program, viewing it as a step towards enhancing community safety.
The amnesty period for possessing the banned firearms has been extended, with the current deadline set for Oct. 30, 2026.
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