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Canada’s National Firearms Association is sounding the alarm over the federal government’s newly launched gun buyback program, arguing it amounts to confiscation and could expose lawful gun owners to legal risk.
In a statement circulated this week, the advocacy group criticized Ottawa’s description of the program as “voluntary,” saying owners of prohibited firearms face pressure to participate or risk criminal charges once the current amnesty expires. Under the rollout, owners are being asked to declare affected firearms through a federal portal or by mail during a limited window early this year.
The group says enforcement authority granted to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police applies nationwide and could lead to licence revocations and seizures for those who do not comply after the amnesty period.
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree announced the program in January, framing it as part of the government’s broader public safety agenda. The NFA disputes that characterization, arguing the initiative is intended to identify and catalogue privately owned firearms and could be expanded in the future.
The association also points to a previous pilot project in Cape Breton, which it says raised concerns among participants, including delays, compensation disputes and negative experiences during the surrender process. The group claims compensation under the national program is not guaranteed and warns that a first-come, first-served approach could leave some owners without payment after turning in firearms.
In its message to members, the NFA also highlighted ongoing federal reviews of additional firearm models, suggesting more could be added to the prohibited list. The group says it is preparing legal and political challenges to the program and is urging supporters to contribute to its advocacy efforts.
The federal government maintains that the buyback is a key element of its firearms policy and says details on compensation and implementation will continue to be provided as the program proceeds.
