Thank you, Chair.
Thank you to both our witnesses for being here.
My question is for you, Wendy. Welcome back.
Last week two witnesses who appeared before the committee—they were asked to appear by our Conservative colleagues—called on the government to enhance the provisions of the Criminal Code around self-defence and property defence so that property owners can act as the first line of defence without fear of prosecution.
In this particular case, the individual was charged and later acquitted after he fired warning shots towards trespassers on his rural property. They appeared to be breaking into his car, and a ricocheting bullet hit one of them. These individuals said, “Firearms aren't the problem in Canada. Our justice system is the problem”. They also said that in these communities people would prefer to “shoot, shovel and shut up” rather than contact the authorities.
I'm wondering what your thoughts are on lessened restrictions on firearms as a solution to property crime.