Public Opinion Shifts Toward Border Security
A recent poll commissioned by the Canadian Taxpayers Federation has revealed a significant preference among Canadians for addressing illegal firearm smuggling rather than enforcing bans and buyback programs. Conducted by Leger on May 22, the survey found that 55 percent of respondents believe the most effective way to reduce gun crime is to implement tougher measures to stop illegal guns from crossing the border from the United States into Canada. This sentiment starkly contrasts with the 26 percent who support banning the sale and ownership of various firearms through a government buyback initiative.
The poll's findings highlight a growing concern over border security as a primary means of tackling gun violence. Only eight percent of Canadians surveyed felt that neither approach was effective, while 11 percent remained unsure of the best strategy. These results suggest a clear public inclination toward addressing the source of illegal firearms rather than restricting legal ownership.
Government Policy and Public Disconnect
The Canadian government announced its gun ban and buyback program in 2020, aiming to reduce the circulation of certain firearms. While the initiative has begun collecting firearms from businesses, it has yet to retrieve any from individual owners. Critics, including voices from police organizations like the National Police Federation, which represents the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), have argued that the buyback program diverts resources from more pressing issues like smuggling.
The disconnect between government policy and public opinion is evident in the poll results. The majority's focus on smuggling aligns with long-standing calls from law enforcement for increased efforts at the border. The Canadian Taxpayers Federation, which commissioned the survey, has emphasized that taxpayers are concerned about the effectiveness and cost of the buyback program when compared to the potential impact of curbing illegal imports.
Implications for Future Policy
The strong public support for targeting illegal firearm smuggling could influence future policy decisions in Ottawa. With 55 percent of Canadians advocating for stricter border controls, there may be increased pressure on lawmakers to allocate resources toward enhancing Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) operations and supporting RCMP efforts to trace crime guns. This approach could involve bolstering national systems to flag suspicious firearm purchases and combat trafficking networks.
As discussions around gun control continue, the Leger poll serves as a critical indicator of public sentiment. Policymakers will likely need to balance the minority support for bans and buybacks with the majority's call for action against smuggling. The debate over how best to ensure public safety remains complex, but these findings underscore a clear preference for addressing external sources of gun crime over internal restrictions.