Liberals demote sport shooters association after criticism of gun buyback scheme

The Canadian Sporting Arms and Ammunition Association has been demoted from its key role as a “participant” to a “consultant” in the federal government’s firearms buyback program after criticizing the Liberals’ approach to gun confiscation.

Despite being contracted to assist with the program, the CSAAA’s vocal opposition to the feasibility of the government plan from the outset has led to its role being significantly reduced.

“There is a severe lack of consultation with the firearms industry during the creation of these policies. The government’s approach often prioritizes political wins and input from victims’ groups, leaving industry experts and the legal firearms community sidelined with no say in their own futures,” reads a release from the association.

The CSAAA was originally contracted to help businesses with communications, inventorying firearms marked for confiscation, and assessing compensation for the affected firearms and businesses.

President of the CSAAA Wes Winkel told True North that his association was never to be involved with collecting and destroying guns but instead was assisting the structural administration, like helping with price estimates and getting the administrative structure set up. They also liaised with dealers and gathered feedback on websites and structure by using their dealer network for input.

The association is no longer responsible for collecting or distributing data for the government or firearm businesses. Instead, its role is now limited to on-demand consultation, offering industry expertise when requested.

True North previously reported CSAAA saying they felt like a political “pawn.”

The CSAAA called the buyback program complex. The association said it highlighted issues rather than offered solutions because none exist.

“The confiscation program is a fundamentally flawed idea,” reads the release.

Winkel told True North that his association had been a highly critical participant, warning the Liberals that their solutions would not work.