Steven Del Duca, Leader of the Ontario Liberal Party, issued the following statement regarding the tabling of new federal firearms legislation Bill C-21:
“Bill C-21 can be an important step toward a comprehensive ban on handguns. But it can’t be the last step.
“Federal politicians need a gun control champion in Ontario’s premier’s chair to get the action Ontario families deserve.
“Unlike Doug Ford’s Conservatives, who have opposed all efforts to reduce gun ownership in Ontario, as Ontario’s Premier, I will lead a national movement to expand federal legislation to include a ban on the possession of handguns, both in Ontario and nationwide. I view today’s announcement as a start, not a full solution.
“Ontario Liberals will also work with our federal partners to deliver a buyback program for assault-style firearms to ensure it includes handguns.
“Our neighbourhoods are reeling from skyrocketing gun crime. It’s become so common that we see multiple gunpoint-carjackings on the news every day. We need action as quickly as humanly possible – and it’s clear Doug Ford won’t do it. Ontario must elect a government and a leader that will.