Statement by MP Zimmer on Government’s Decision to Accede the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty

OTTAWA – Bob Zimmer, Member of Parliament for Prince George-Peace River-Northern Rockies, issued the following statement regarding the Liberal government’s decision to accede the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty:

“It is unfortunate that Canada’s rigorous firearms system will now have an added layer of unnecessary red tape thanks to the decision by the Liberal government to accede the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty.

“I believe that Canada already has measures in place to protect public safety that are far superior to the model offered by the United Nations. It is why I introduced a Private Members’ Motion in the previous Parliament which highlighted Canada’s extensive firearms safety regulations and discouraged the government from adopting the United Nations resolution 55/255 concerning firearms, and more specifically firearms markings.

“I firmly believe that any arms trade treaty should recognize and acknowledge the legitimacy of law-abiding firearms ownership and I am deeply concerned about how this treaty will affect responsible firearms owners in Canada.

“I will continue to support a system that respects the rights of Canada’s law-abiding firearms owners and outdoors traditions, while also helping to protect the safety of our communities.”

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