Hunting rifles are seen on display in a glass case at a gun and rifle store in downtown Vancouver, B.C., Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2010. Seven members of a parliamentary committee studying the Liberal gun bill have requested two special meetings to hear from witnesses on the government's proposed definition of an assault-style firearm. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jonathan Hayward
OTTAWA – Seven members of a parliamentary committee studying the Liberal gun bill have requested two special meetings to hear from witnesses on the government’s proposed definition of an assault-style firearm.
The definition, put forward by the government as an amendment, has prompted confusion and controversy as MPs go over the bill clause by clause.
The seven Liberal, Bloc and New Democrat MPs want clarity on the amendment amid concerns the measure would outlaw many firearms commonly used by hunters.
In a letter to the committee chairman, the members say they were not able to question witnesses about the amendment because groups and experts had already completed their testimony.
They say further study is essential to truly protect the public interest and Canadians from gun-related harm.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said today the goal is to ban military-style assault weapons while ensuring the legislation does not go after shotguns and rifles that are primarily used for hunting.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 8, 2022.
