Churchill-Keewatinook Aski MP Niki Ashton called on the federal Liberals to drop amendments made to the controversial gun-control bill C-21.

 

Much of it surrounds the language of the amendment, specifically what constitutes as an “assault-style firearm”, which Ashton says impacts northern and Indigenous communities.

 

"Indigenous leaders at the AFN unanimously opposed the Liberal's ammendment to Bill C-21.  This ammendment is a threat to Indigenous and northern ways of life.  It is a slap in the face for communitites that depend on hunting and trapping to live - people that are facing some of the highest costs of living right now.

 

Bill C-21 was meant to be important legislation to deal with handgun violence but the Liberals have chosen to play cheap political games.  Will the Liberals withdraw the Amendment, stick to the main bill, and stand up for northern and Indigenous peoples struggling right now?"

 

Northern Affairs Minister Dan Vandal responded that the Liberals have been clear that they’re not targeting hunting rifles and shotguns.

 

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated the government is trying to find the dividing line between guns suitable for hunting and ones that pose significant danger to society.

 

Bill C-21 is being studied by the House of Commons public safety committee.