South Simcoe Police Service passes on compensation program for banned guns

The South Simcoe Police (SSP) Service has decided to opt out of the assault-style firearms compensation program.

In a news release, SSP said the decision was made after careful consideration and review of the information currently available.

"While the service will not be directly involved in the collection process, it will continue to work cooperatively with policing partners and all levels of government on matters related to public safety and lawful firearms regulation."

The Barrie Police Service recently announced it would not participate in the program, joining other police services in Ontario and across the country. Several provinces have also refused to take part in the program.

Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree says he doesn't foresee logistical challenges in gathering up banned firearms through a federal buyback program, despite the refusal of several provinces and police forces to help.

Anandasangaree said in an interview with The Canadian Press that the use of mobile collection units and off-duty or retired police officers will help ensure the collection of banned firearms that owners elect to hand over for compensation.

Public Safety Canada says gun owners reported 22,251 firearms to the government in the first week of the program to provide compensation for banned guns.

Owners of outlawed firearms have until the end of March to declare interest in the program, which offers them money for turning in or permanently deactivating their guns.

Since May 2020, Ottawa has outlawed about 2,500 types of firearms, including the AR-15, on the basis they belong only on the battlefield.

Prohibited firearms and devices must be disposed of — or deactivated — by the end of an amnesty period on Oct. 30. 

with files from The Canadian Press