QUEBEC CITY — Several thousand protesters gathered in Quebec City to oppose the federal gun buyback program, with organizers calling on the provincial government to withdraw from participation.

The demonstration, organized around the slogan "Our weapons are not for sale," reflects deepening divisions over Canada's federal firearm policy. Protesters expressed concerns about government authority regarding private firearm ownership and questioned the program's implementation and cost.

"Several thousand protesters in Quebec City are demanding the provincial government withdraw from a federal gun buyback program," according to CHCH TV reporting. The scale of the demonstration underscores the polarization surrounding the issue in Canada.

The federal buyback program, implemented following the government's decision to ban certain firearm classifications, has faced criticism from multiple constituencies. Gun owners and civil liberties advocates argue the program represents government overreach, while public safety organizations generally support the initiative as a method to reduce prohibited firearm availability.

Provincial governments have taken varied positions on the program. Some have committed resources and administrative support, while others have expressed reservations about participation, citing implementation concerns or philosophical opposition to the initiative.

The Quebec protest reflects broader Canadian debates about balancing public safety objectives with individual property rights and constitutional protections. The demonstration also signals political pressure on provincial officials to articulate clear positions on federal gun control measures.

The federal government maintains that the buyback program represents a necessary public safety measure, while opposition groups continue to mobilize against the initiative through political advocacy and public demonstrations.

Sources

CHCH TV — 'Our weapons are not for sale!' Protesters target Ottawa's gun buyback program