News release: Alberta Wildlife Federation Issues Statement on Firearms Legislation and Responsible Ownership

EDMONTON, Dec 11, 2024 – The Alberta Wildlife Federation (AWF) is reaffirming its commitment to protecting the rights of responsible firearm owners while advocating for legislation that enhances public safety and supports Alberta’s outdoor heritage. 

As a volunteer-based, not-for-profit organization, the Alberta Wildlife Federation proudly represents ethical hunters, anglers, sport shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts across the province. We are dedicated to the responsible stewardship of Alberta's natural environment and to ensuring that our outdoor traditions are preserved for future generations. 

AWF’s Position on Current Firearms Legislation 

AWF recognizes the critical role that legal firearm ownership plays in Alberta’s hunting, sport shooting, and recreational activities. Unfortunately, the current firearms legislation appears to unfairly target law-abiding hunters and sport shooters—groups that have consistently demonstrated responsibility and safety in their use of firearms. 

In Canada, legal firearm owners undergo rigorous vetting and are statistically four times less likely to commit offences than the general population. AWF believes the current legislative measures, which restrict access to firearms for legal owners, fail to address the real sources of gun violence: criminal activity, organized crime, and the illegal firearms trade. 

Blanket bans on firearms are not only ineffective at curbing crime but also risk infringing on the rights of responsible hunters and sport shooters. Such measures limit participation in lawful shooting activities and fail to provide cost-effective or meaningful improvements to public safety. 

Advocating for Targeted and Effective Solutions 

AWF supports legislation that: 

• Targets illegal firearms and addresses gun violence at its source. 

• Increase penalties for the criminal misuse of firearms. 

• Develops practical, evidence-based solutions that enhance public safety while respecting the rights of legal firearm owners. 

We stand ready to collaborate with government policymakers to ensure that the voices of Alberta’s hunting and sport shooting communities are heard and represented in future legislation. 

Partnering with National Organizations 

As a proud member of the National Fishing and Hunting Collaborative (NFHC), AWF echoes the NFHC’s call for: 

• A consistent, transparent, and evidence-based approach to firearms classification. 

• Policies that focus on addressing organized crime, illegal firearm activities, and the root causes of gun violence. 

• The rescinding of blanket firearm bans and a commitment to avoid implementing new ones. 

Commitment to Alberta’s Outdoor Legacy 

AWF is dedicated to preserving Alberta’s outdoor traditions and ensuring that legal and responsible firearm ownership remains a cornerstone of hunting, sport shooting, and recreational activities. We remain committed to collaborating with government and stakeholders to advocate for balanced and effective legislation that reflects the needs of Albertans while safeguarding public safety. 

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For media inquiries, please contact: 

Faran Schaber, President, Alberta Wildlife Federation 

president@albertawildlifefederation.ca 

(780) 437-2342