Gun Violence in Toronto

Dear Premier,

The Canada Safety Council recognizes your concern and efforts in addressing the surge in gun violence that continues to plague Toronto. Raising the issue with the new U.S. Ambassador to Canada, David Wilkins is commendable; however, it is most likely to be counterproductive and, unfortunately, an exercise in futility.

Effective gun control legislation, as you are aware, is not high on the current political agenda in the U.S. and will certainly not be for a long time into the future, if ever. It is quite obvious that the proponents of an effective gun control program in the present political climate in that country are no match for a pro-gun culture and an overpowering and wealthy pro-gun lobby.

That being said, as a public health, crime control and safety concern, the matter of illegal guns entering this country must become a high priority for the federal, provincial and municipal governments.

Appropriate countermeasures must be developed and implemented. The time to act is now!

Sincerely,

Emile-J. Therien
President, Canada Safety Council

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		August 5, 2005 Honourable Dalton McGuinty, M.P.P. Premier of Ontario Queen’s Park Toronto Gun Violence in Toronto Dear Premier, The Canada Safety Council recognizes your concern and efforts in addressing the surge in gun violence that continues to plague Toronto. Raising the issue with the new U.S. Ambassador to Canada, David Wilkins is commendable; however, it is most likely to be counterproductive and, unfortunately, an exercise in futility. Effective gun control legislation, as you are aware, is not high on the current political agenda in the U.S. and will certainly not be for a long time into the future, if ever. It is quite obvious that the proponents of an effective gun control program in the present political climate in that country are no match for a pro-gun culture and an overpowering and wealthy pro-gun lobby. That being said, as a public health, crime control and safety concern, the matter of illegal guns entering this country must become a high priority for the federal, provincial and municipal governments. Appropriate countermeasures must be developed and implemented. The time to act is now! Sincerely, Emile-J. Therien President, Canada Safety Council Return to top of page