THUNDER BAY – Thunder Bay Superior North MP Bruce Hyer announced his intention to vote to end the long gun registry later this fall, if a compromise agreement acceptable to his constituents could not be reached.
This follows a commitment made by the MP for Thunder Bay-Superior North last week to oppose a separate Liberal procedural motion to be voted upon Wednesday that would suspend House consideration of Bill C-391.
“This fall, I and other Members of Parliament will face some difficult votes on the long gun registry.” said Hyer. “Each Member must consider the facts and the wishes of their constituents when casting their vote. It is a heavy responsibility, and no matter what choice is made, some will be unhappy. Nevertheless, I greatly value all their opinions, and my door will always remain open to them, regardless of the outcome.”
“Over seven years and three elections I have consulted the constituents of Thunder Bay-Superior North on this issue, and their overwhelming desire to end the long gun registry has been made abundantly clear. For many years I have made a commitment to them to end the long gun registry.” stated Hyer.
“Unless new developments arise or an acceptable compromise can be reached, I intend to cast my vote to end the long gun registry on future votes.” Hyer committed. “I have thought long and hard over this, and I would never cast a vote that I thought reduced the safety of Canadians in any way. The guns that are especially problematic in our society – the prohibited and restricted ones like handguns – will still be registered. I believe the current storage regulations and Possession & Acquistion License are effective in screening applicants and ensuring firearms safety, and these will remain in place. I would never vote to end the long gun registry if I thought that doing so reduced the safety of Canadians in any way.”
“I remain hopeful that parties in the House of Commons will be willing and able to work towards a compromise solution that ensures our safety, while respecting the cultural and economic needs of families and communities across rural Canada. I will be working in Parliament towards that end, right up until the final vote.” the MP said. “Above all, I will keep the interests of my constituents foremost in my mind in any negotiations or votes in Parliament.”
At the announcement, Hyer said “I commend Jack Layton for allowing a free vote. While other parties are dictating what their MPs must do, Jack has used reason – instead of the whip – to convince people of his position in the best traditions of democracy.”