FSIN Not Backing Down on Gun Control Issue

FSIN Not Backing Down on Gun Control Issue

Thursday, February 12, 2004 at 14:19

FSIN vice chief Lawrence Joseph laid out the situation for First Nations hunters today in regards to the highly controversial firearms registry.

Speaking at the FSIN legislative assembly in Prince Albert, Joseph talked about the efforts he and his staff have made in regards to the issue — which could see gun control applied to First Nations people regardless of treaty rights.

Joseph says an injunction was recently attempted with the help of the FSIN’s Lands and Resources Commission which would have temporarily prohibited the imposition of gun control – but it was struck down by the courts who feel the law doesn’t infringe on the rights of native hunters.

Joseph says he is optimistic Prime Minister Martin may be persuaded to make an exemption somewhere along the line for First Nations hunters, but he doesn’t know for sure.