As pertains to the merger of the two licences, the RCMP will do the screening, which remains the same. The process will be the same as for a new gun owner. You'll have to take the new Canadian Firearms Safety Course. Once you complete that course and pass the introductory course on hunting with a firearm, you can apply for a gun licence. New gun owners will have to do all that.
In our view, this is a valid way to licence. The RCMP undertakes a thorough investigation of the individual's record. He or she must answer a bunch of very personal questions. Once the information is registered, sent to the RCMP and analyzed, the individual receives a licence that allows him or her to purchase a firearm to practice their favourite sport. In our case, it will involve wildlife and hunting activities. The courses, along with all the thorough questions, are very important to us. We are in favour of the gun licence and the merger of these two licences. Indeed, it would simplify the life of those who wish to practice a healthy activity that benefits all of society.
However, the same does not apply to restricted firearms, an issue I won't dive into here. Restricted firearms are the jurisdiction of gun ranges and shooting federations, not of hunting and fishing associations. Our interest is in hunting and wildlife activities. You should properly apply for a licence after having followed courses. Those who practice these activities are responsible citizens.