The Canadian Sporting Arms and Ammunition Association (CSAAA) has worked hard to support businesses affected by the federal government’s firearms prohibitions, trying to protect livelihoods and ensuring fair compensation for unsellable inventory. Without CSAAA’s advocacy and consultation, many businesses would face even further challenges in navigating this complex confiscation or “buyback” program.
Through countless meetings and negotiations, CSAAA has successfully secured additional aid for businesses that are forced to participate in the program. Administrative compensation is now being provided, with a $250 administrative fee per firearm to help cover the labor, packaging, and shipping costs incurred by businesses. This important measure alleviates some of the program’s administrative burdens, helping businesses focus on staying operational and serving their clients.
CSAAA has also secured compensation for firearm parts, which is an essential victory for businesses with substantial unsellable stock. While Public Safety imposed a cap of 200 parts per claim, CSAAA secured provisions allowing businesses to request exceptions, which may include submitting proof of purchase or manufacturing. This ensures broader access to fair compensation for parts that would otherwise be lost inventory. This compensation does not mean that these parts are prohibited.
Additionally, CSAAA fought for fair pricing for the prohibited firearms. Although not all of the recommended pricing was adopted, the current model is far more fair than the original pricing model proposed by Public Safety. This achievement directly benefits businesses seeking compensation, ensuring they are not forced to accept extremely undervalued rates for their unsellable firearms.
The prohibitions have placed many businesses in dire financial situations. Some are even struggling to remain operational while waiting for the 45-day processing period to receive payment. For many, immediate relief through timely claims submission is their only hope of survival.
In Saskatchewan and Alberta, CSAAA has worked closely with provincial Chief Firearms Officers (CFOs) to address additional regulatory challenges. CSAAA has built a strong relationship with these firearms friendly CFOs.
For instance, under the Saskatchewan Firearms Act, no seizure agent licenses have been issued, leaving no licensed individuals or organizations authorized to handle firearms for the federal confiscation program. This makes it illegal for couriers or shippers to transport firearms unless destined for destruction or deactivation.
CSAAA’s contract, allowing them to consult on behalf of businesses, and their persistent efforts have been essential in securing fair compensation and supporting businesses through these challenges. Without CSAAA’s involvement, businesses would face overwhelming administrative burdens, inadequate compensation, and limited options for recourse, leaving many at risk of closure. Their work has provided a lifeline, helping businesses remain viable and protecting jobs and livelihoods across the industry.
