I would like to clarify some issues about the letter to the editor titled "No justification for the AR-15."
Automatic firearms have been prohibited since 1978 to the general public.
The only legal users in Canada are the Canadian Armed Forces, legal owners who are grandfathered prohibited gun collectors and these firearms cannot be used on any range or property.
Last time I checked laws in Canada are democratically created in Parliament by our elected politicians and not by the RCMP even when it pertains to firearms. The purpose of the RCMP is to enforce the laws of Canada, not create their own. Some elected politicians choose to support the firearms community and some do not. In a democracy, lobbying elected politicians is our right and one way of changing existing laws in this country. Many issues in Canadian culture have been changed by lobbying elected politicians.
Within the community of firearms ownership, many choose not to hunt and only target shoot as a form of recreation at a range. This gives firearm owners choices of what type of firearms one chooses to own and use safely.
Choosing a non-restricted or restricted firearm is one's choice within the laws of Canada. It is a privilege, not a right to possess or own a firearm and one must have a firearms licence in Canada. No one is exempt.
The AR-15 is a restricted semi-automatic rifle that can only be discharged on an approved range at a gun club. It is a very popular rifle all across Canada.
Many hunting rifles are also semi-automatic, which are non-restricted firearms. The AR-15 is a great rifle and very accurate.
It became restricted on Oct. 1, 1992 because it was black and of in some people's view, has a "terrifying" appearance, according to the NFA and Government of Canada.
Firearms bans do not reduce violence.
Have a look at the Australian Model of Firearms Ban; as a result, violence and homicides increased. Once firearms are banned or prohibited, you will never get them back. The firearms community needs to stick together and lobby our elected politicians to make sure this will never happen in Canada.
Firearms homicides in Canada are very low. More people die from car accidents, drinking and driving, use of drugs or texting while driving. Gun violence stems from criminal activities, persons with violent backgrounds, the illegal use/sale of drugs and/or mental health issues. Background checks are necessary in a modern society, education creates a better and safer society.
Canada has one of the best democracies in the world.
In Central or South American countries, firearms are prohibited from the general public; only police, military, drug cartels and criminals have access to firearms. Gun violence and homicides are at their highest, people just disappear and M-16's and AK-47 firearms are readily available on the black market.
My parents lived through a gun ban under Hitler and Mussolini, they told me it was a very terrifying experience. All firearms are designed to kill.
Before one writes an letter, please be informed.
Roy Lemcke
Prince George
