Canada proposes stringent law to control gun use

Canadian government has unveiled a proposal to tighten gun control laws to help reduce crimes.

The proposal recommends stringent background checks of people buying firearms. Further, retailers will be required to maintain sufficient records on stocks and sales.

Canada has stringent firearms laws than the US; however,  crimes involving guns have continued to increase by 30% in the three-year period starting 2013.

Canadian Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale was quoted by Reuters as saying: “Hard evidence shows a gun violence issue that is serious, getting worse, and not confined to big cities.”

Last year, six people died when a gunman fired at a mosque in Quebec City.

According to experts, Canada has imposed ban on several kinds of assault rifles, but some firearms are still being permitted. Further, due to relaxed US regulations, smuggled weapons find its way into its neighbour.

In February, the Canadian government promised to spend $250.4m over five years to tighten border security.

Currently, gun owners have to obtain licenses and go through safety training besides extensive checks. Some kinds of guns also need to be registered for tracking. Completely automatic weapons are banned from use.

The AR-15 assault-style rifle, used in several recent US massacres, is also restricted.

The National Firearms Association plans to protest against the legislation.

NFA president Sheldon Clare was quoted by the news agency as saying: “Firearms owners and users in Canada when motivated are a very strong political force.”