Evidence of meeting #63 for Public Safety and National Security in the 44th Parliament, 1st Session. (The original version is on Parliament’s site, as are the minutes.) The winning word was definition.
A recording is available from Parliament.
6:55 p.m.
Conservative
Glen Motz Conservative Medicine Hat—Cardston—Warner, AB
It's those that could be covered off or related to the new definition in G-3.2.
6:55 p.m.
Counsel, Criminal Law Policy Section, Department of Justice
The definition is a qualitative definition. There is no list or schedule that lists any of those kinds of firearms, so I don't think we can actually provide that information.
I will turn it over to my colleague, Ms. Mainville-Dale.
6:55 p.m.
Acting Director General, Firearms Policy, Department of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
The new definition that is being proposed is one that's based on technical characteristics that the government has determined—or made a decision proposal—are not suitable for civilian use and pose a risk to public safety.
6:55 p.m.
Conservative
Glen Motz Conservative Medicine Hat—Cardston—Warner, AB
Thank you.
That's a fair statement. However, I think it shows that whoever's playing the music for your officials to dance to has a misguided approach.
To me, there has to be some evidence somewhere. Stats Canada, the RCMP or law enforcement across the country have to have some evidence to suggest that these—basically what you're describing here are hunting rifles and shotguns—pose such a significant threat to the safety of Canadians that they, the government, feel that they have to develop a definition that fits that category of firearm.
It goes after hunters and sport shooters, basically. It is a little disconcerting that it's still a definition that is possible to have. We need to be aware of that.
I have a couple more.
Did the minister talk about consultations? We don't know who all he consulted with. We know some because some have reached out to us about—
6:55 p.m.
Liberal
The Chair Liberal Ron McKinnon
Mr. Motz, I'm afraid we've run out of time.
You have the floor. We will resume this debate....
I have Mr. Julian on a point of order.
6:55 p.m.
NDP
Peter Julian NDP New Westminster—Burnaby, BC
I just wanted to say in response to the issue around the firearms advisory committee that it was established under the Harper government in 2006. The Conservatives can get information from their own folks on that.
I really am saddened by this filibuster.
6:55 p.m.
Liberal
The Chair Liberal Ron McKinnon
Thank you, Mr. Julian.
Mr. Motz, when we resume, you will have the floor and you may continue your questioning at that point.
Thank you once again to the officials.
Thank you to our legislative clerk, our analysts and all of our committee staff.
It's really great to see you guys again. I think we'll be seeing a lot more of you.
With that, we are now adjourned.