Toronto Star Referrer

Regulate guns, curb smuggling from the U.S.

Liberals defend changes to firearms bill, Dec. 6

The question for us all is: “Are the changes in the law going to make life safer for Canadians in the long run?”

I spent a lot of time in Australia, shooting kangaroos and wild pigs that tore up fences and ruined crops with a .22 Hornet rifle and a .308. The .308 is powerful enough to bring down a Grizzly. The rifles hold 10 to 20 rounds in them that are shot off one at a time. They are more than adequate for any type of hunting in Canada.

I often hear Canadians echoing their southern neighbours by talking about rights. But no one has a right to own a firearm because it is a privilege, just like hopping behind the wheel of a car. My ability to receive good medical care, education and be able to vote are rights; owning a gun is not.

So yes, the government should continue to make sure that the types of firearms that are available to purchase by hunters and landowners are adequate for the purpose they are meant for and nothing more, and that there are sound checks, balances and training in place to ensure that those who think they need them are of sound mind.

The government must also do everything in its power to curb the illicit smuggling of firearms from the U.S.

Both things need to be dealt with, with the same urgency, for the good of all Canadians.

Matthew Marosszeky, Aurora

OPINION

en-ca

2022-12-08T08:00:00.0000000Z

2022-12-08T08:00:00.0000000Z

https://thestarepaper.pressreader.com/article/281779928161662

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