Liberal MP Nathalie Provost Urges Action on Gun Control Now

UPDATE: Liberal MP Nathalie Provost, a survivor of the École Polytechnique massacre, is sounding the alarm on the government’s sluggish gun-control agenda just days ahead of the tragedy’s anniversary. In an exclusive interview, Provost expressed frustration over the slow progress of critical legislation aimed at addressing gun violence in Canada, despite her position in the government.

Provost, who has transitioned from being Canada’s leading gun-control advocate to the role of secretary of state for nature in the new administration led by Prime Minister Mark Carney, stated, “I would not have run for Parliament without assurances that the government was committed to our gun-control agenda.” This agenda includes a controversial ban and buyback program targeting approximately 2,500 types of rifles.

As the December 6 anniversary approaches, Provost highlighted the mounting challenges faced by the government, including resistance from provincial authorities, police forces, and angry gun owners. “The Trudeau government should have finished this job to ensure that a Conservative government could not undo our efforts,” she stressed.

Earlier this week, Provost attended a ceremony at Polytechnique to honor the victims of the 1989 shooting. She noted that her former advocacy group, PolySeSouvient, has criticized the Carney government for not yet banning the SKS rifle, which is often used in violent incidents, and for failing to implement measures against intimate partner gun violence two years after critical legislation was passed.

In response to the growing impatience among advocates, Provost acknowledged the need for a swift and effective government response. “We have to be quick, effective, 100 percent perfect the first time, but we do our best,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of public safety.

Despite the hurdles, the government has announced plans to implement regulations related to the gun-control promises. However, the program is facing significant obstacles. Recently, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith proposed new regulations that could undermine the buyback initiative, instructing provincial entities not to participate. The Liberal government has yet to disclose how many banned weapons have been collected to date.

Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree defended the government’s position, stating that provinces obstructing the program are “hurting their own citizens.” He also reported that logistical issues from a pilot program in Cape Breton, N.S., have been resolved, although the results of that program remain undisclosed amid concerns of low participation.

Provost is committed to holding the government accountable as the nationwide gun buyback program is set to launch. “Public safety is a very important issue for all Canadians,” she said, underscoring the need for a transparent evaluation of the program’s effectiveness.

As the anniversary of the Montreal massacre draws near, Provost reiterated her unwavering commitment to fighting for meaningful gun control, despite recent political turmoil, including the high-profile resignation of fellow cabinet member Steven Guilbeault.

With emotions running high and the stakes even higher, the call for decisive action on gun control resonates louder than ever. The clock is ticking, and advocates like Provost are determined to ensure that progress is made before it’s too late.