Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Winnipeg city council for its initiative in keeping 1,500 obsolete police revolvers from finding their way back on to the streets.
The city council was offered $115 per gun as a trade in allowance. However, this forward thinking municipal council chose to melt down these weapons because the manufacturer was to resell them to an American arm's dealer. One can only imagine how many of these would fall into the hands of irresponsible gun owners and how many tragedies would follow.
Because of the actions of this council I am convinced lives have been spared. Those who contribute $115 to Winnipeg's retire a gun scheme to help offset the lost revenue should also be commended.
This is an option that Canadians should be encouraging other municipalities to choose. Congratulations, Winnipeg.