Canada’s gun control changes expand background checks, record keeping
OTTAWA (NEWS 1130) — The prime minister says his government is bringing in new gun control regulations, saying recent gun violence in our country has shown the need for further action.
Beginning July 7, Justin Trudeau’s government will require all background checks from someone looking to buy a firearm to span their whole life, and not just the last five years.
There are also new requirements for stores to keep better records for all guns sold, something he says will help police in investigations.
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“Make it a legal requirement for retailers to properly verify a buyer’s license before making a sale, and to retain inventory and sales for all firearms, including non-restricted ones,” he explains.
Trudeau says recent gun crimes in Canada have highlighted the need for further action — referring to a recent shooting in Toronto where three children and a man were shot during a toddler’s birthday party.
A one-year-old, a five-year-old and an 11-year-old all suffered gunshot wounds. The five-year-old remains in critical condition.
“No child should be caught in the crossfire, no community should be torn apart by tragedy,” Trudeau said.
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A 24-year-old man, who was also taken to hospital, was arrested, and has been charged in connection with the shooting. Demar Cadogan of Toronto faces multiple charges, including discharge of a firearm with intent and possession of a restricted or prohibited firearm without a licence.
Toronto police have also arrested a second suspect — a 21-year-old — in connection with the shooting.
He’s also facing multiple charges including four counts of aggravated assault and seven firearm-related offences.
Last year, the federal government introduced a ban on what it labelled as assault-style firearms.
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The public safety minister is expected to discuss more details of the new measures later Tuesday.
