VIBANK, Sask. – Gun owners want Saskatchewan justice minister John Nilson to proceed with a court challenge of the new federal gun control legislation.
Dan Lupichuck, the National Firearms Association’s Saskatchewan representative, told a crowd of about 300 gun owners at a meeting here April 19 the new law is “the first step on the slippery slide to dictatorship.
“Mr. Nilson, will you assure us here tonight that you will do all in your power to stop this legislation, including a court challenge?” Lupichuck asked.
Nilson said a decision has not been made on whether the challenge will go ahead. He wants to consult with other provinces at a meeting in early May.
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He also wants more time to examine the recently released regulations contained in Bill C-68, the new gun control law.
He would not reveal what the regulations contain as they cannot be released to other groups without Ottawa’s approval, Nilson said.
He said if a court challenge is not possible, the province may decide to opt out of some responsibilities the regulations could impose, such as administering the registration program. He also said Ottawa has underestimated the costs involved.
Nilson announced a technical advisory committee including gun owners and police officers will be established to assist the government with gun control issues.
