N.S. premier says no provincial money will go to gun buyback program
Posted Feb 5, 2026 01:16:32 PM.
Last Updated Feb 5, 2026 01:34:42 PM.
Nova Scotia’s premier says the province will not be investing any money to take part in Ottawa’s gun buyback program.
Premier Tim Houston’s comments come after Halifax Regional Police signed an agreement with the federal government earlier this week to participate in the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program.
The program was launched after the feds prohibited over 2,500 makes and models of what the government refers to as assault style firearms.
Houston was asked about HRP’s decision during an appearance on The Todd Veinotte Show.
“It’s ridiculous, to be honest,” he said. “There are lots of things that officers can be doing to help keep communities safe; this program is not one of them.”
Houston went on to call the program well-intentioned but misguided.
“What we said is that no provincial money will go towards any of these programs. So if somebody thinks we’re going to give them provincial money to participate, not going to happen, and Halifax should know that as well.”
Meantime, HRP Chief Don MacLean said on Tuesday, while he knows most gun owners do not have a malicious intent to misuse their firearm, he does believe Halifax would benefit from having fewer guns in communities.
According to HRP, gunowners must declare their intent to take part in the program by March 31.
