Ottawa Police Decline Participation in Federal Firearms Buyback Program
The Ottawa Police Service has announced it will not take part in the federal government's firearms "buyback" program, citing significant resource constraints and operational challenges. With the program deadline approaching in four weeks, the decision highlights the ongoing pressures facing law enforcement agencies.
Resource Strain and Staffing Pressures
In a joint statement released late Monday afternoon, the OPS and the Ottawa Police Service Board explained that officers cannot sustain the level of resourcing required for the program while maintaining core duties and priorities. Ongoing staffing pressures and rising demand for police services were identified as key factors behind this strategic choice.
Chief Eric Stubbs emphasized in an emailed statement: "We support efforts to reduce firearm-related harm, and we recognize the objectives of the federal program. At the same time, decisions like this have to be grounded in what can be delivered safely and consistently. Based on the assessment of the program's requirements, OPS is not in a position to take on the additional responsibilities without impacting core policing priorities."
Program Details and Requirements
The federal Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program was launched on January 19, with gun owners having until March 31 to turn in banned firearms for compensation. The program covers more than 2,500 prohibited guns, with nearly $250 million allocated for payments expected to cover up to 136,000 firearms.
Alta Vista ward Coun. Marty Carr, vice-chair of the Ottawa Police Service Board, detailed that the decision followed assessment of the program's requirements, which included:
- Appointment-based collection
- Verification procedures
- Secure handling protocols
- Short-term storage needs
- Administrative responsibilities
- System access requirements
Alternative Safety Strategies
Carr confirmed that the OPS and OPSB will continue employing evidence-based strategies to reduce violence and enhance public safety across Ottawa. She noted that police officers have focused on gang activity and seizing illegal firearms as part of the 2024-2027 Strategic Plan.
"Our commitment is to use our resources in the best way possible and support evidence-based strategies," Carr told the Ottawa Citizen. "We want to have evidence-based strategies that reduce violence and strengthen community safety. That's what's at the heart of what we're trying to do here."
Addressing Operational Challenges
The police board is working with OPS to tackle operational challenges, including the swearing-in of 46 new officers on March 4 and a five percent increase to the police tax levy approved in Budget 2026. These measures aim to bolster police capacity while maintaining focus on core responsibilities.
Regardless of compensation, gun owners must turn over or permanently disable prohibited firearms before the amnesty period ends on October 30. Failure to comply may result in loss of firearms licence, according to Public Safety Canada. The amnesty has been in place since May 2020, providing temporary protection from criminal liability.
