Firearms Buy-Back Program (GNWT)

We are sharing this on behalf of the GNWT.

Government of the Northwest Territories Communication on Firearms Buy-Back Program

I am writing to share information regarding the Government of Canada’s federally mandated firearms buyback program and the position the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has taken on its implementation in the territory.

The GNWT will not be administering the buyback program, nor will we be directing RCMP to do so. Our priority is to support safe, healthy communities, and we believe RCMP resources must remain focused on core policing responsibilities, particularly given the significant pressures many of our communities are facing.

As this is a federal initiative, the Government of Canada is solely responsible for its design and administration. Following our discussions, the federal government has confirmed that it will implement the program independently. We understand their current approach is to contract individuals to travel throughout the territory to collect firearms directly from residents who choose to participate.

The GNWT has also emphasized to the federal government the importance of providing clear information and communication directly to all Indigenous governments in the NWT on how the program will operate in the North.

If you would like a more detailed briefing or have specific concerns regarding this federal initiative, you can email Public Safety Canada at:

fpbengagementandoutreach-dpafengagementetsensibilisation@ps-sp.gc.ca.

Firearms Buyback Program.pdf

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