Really?

The Long Gun Registry saves lives all across this country for only a cost of between $1.1 million and $3.6 million per year. That's pretty damn impressive considering its effectiveness. Unfortunately, all is not calm in the land of fire arm restrictions, as the debate has opened up once again since its inception in the 1990's.

It all started like this: a backbencher (read: non-cabinet minister member of the governing party caucus) introduced a bill that would abolish the Long Gun Registry. As per tradition, private members bills like this are never whipped votes. Thus, free votes are had by all and the voting intentions are determined solely by the Members personal beliefs and not their party's beliefs. Most Conservatives are voting in favour of its abolition, while Michael Ignatieff is whipping his caucus into voting against it. The Bloc I believe is also generally against the abolition, while the NDP has taken the high road.

Jack Layton, being the wise man that he is, understands the advantages and disadvantages of the programme (yes, I'm British) especially for those living in rural areas. There are numerous dangers out in the Great White North, and safety is the number one concern for every family here. Regardless of your location in the country, hunting should always be a viable option for recreational purposes granted it is performed in a sustainable manner. Getting the materials necessary for hunting shouldn't be incredibly difficult for a citizen without a criminal history. Among other things, the NDP plan also protects Aboriginal treaty rights, eliminates charges to register, protects gun owners' privacy, and allows municipalities to determine the future of hand guns.

Shame on the Conservatives for once again opening up another divisive issue as they have done so many times before. Shame on the Liberals too, and in particular Ignatieff for attempting to polarize this issue beyond what is necessary. I'm amazed that this is still an issue for Canada in 2010, but perhaps what's even more puzzling is the claim that this is the single most important issue affecting out great nation today. I guess they're right to say that: it's not like the economy or the environment are concerns at all for Canadians.