The logos of the Owen Sound, Hanover, Saugeen Shores and West Grey Police Services.
Hanover Police are joining a growing number of municipal police services across Canada in declining participation the Federal Government’s Assault Style Firearm Compensation Program.
Owen Sound, West Grey and Saugeen Shores Police services have also declined to participate.
Collectively, local police services are citing unclear details in the federal plan, along with lack of local resources and a focus on continued policing efforts within each community as reasons for not participating.
Local police departments will still collect and dispose of any firearms the public would like to turn in but those looking to receive compensation will need to properly declare firearms by March 31st deadline.
Over 2,500 makes and models of firearms which have been banned since May 2020, are covered by the program.
While the compensation program is voluntary, complying with the law is not. Owners must turn in or deactivate the prohibited firearms by October 30, 2026, or face potential criminal charges.
Those looking for details on participating in the program are encouraged to visit the Government of Canada website.