KENORA, Ont. – Kenora MP Eric Melillo is touting the results of a survey of his constituents showing overwhelming support for the Conservative representative’s advocacy on firearms issues.
The first-time MP has been vocal in his opposition to a ban on many kinds of assault weapons instituted by the Liberal government in May. The move came less than two weeks after a deadly gun rampage in Nova Scotia.
Existing owners have two years to comply with the ban, with a buy-back program promised.
Melillo’s office reported that 93 per cent of the more than 500 people who responded to a mail-out survey supported his advocacy on firearms issues. The results do not represent a scientific sample.
“Criminalizing law-abiding hunters and sport shooters is not the answer to stopping crime,” Melillo stated in a release. “Many of my constituents are responsible firearm owners who use guns for hunting, sport shooting, and self-defence against dangerous wild animals. Firearms are simply part of our way of life in Northern Ontario.”
He maintained strategies including increased access to mental health and addiction treatment, more funding for police gang and gun units, and tougher sentences for violent offenders would be more effective in stopping gun violence.
Thunder Bay Liberal MP Marcus Powlowski indicated earlier this year he had received more feedback on the ban than any other issue since his election in 2019 – but maintained he supported his government’s position on the issue.
