Premier Danielle Smith issued a press release “Alberta takes back constitutional jurisdiction” concerning the new firearms act. Alberta has no jurisdiction to take back. The constitution clearly gives the criminal code to federal jurisdiction.
I find it disturbing that with all the things Albertans are faced with; inflation, health care, environmental issues, education funding, nursing shortage, and a host of others, she chooses this the fight to pick. Clearly she just wants a fight. Another fight with the federal government Alberta will loose in the courts. Another waste of tax dollars.
I believe this is a bad piece of legislation. The law was hastily thrown together poorly thought out and not based in any study. There are pieces that are useful and many more that are laughable. If our premier truly wants to protect Albertans, approach the government with alternatives. Spell out the sections that need amending and why it hurts your constituents. This process is called governing. What Smith is doing is picking a fight. One Alberta will loose, and the taxpayer pays the bills.
There are ways to govern and lead that are much more effective and less sensational. I am a Albertan, a gun owner, and a father. Should I set the example the we can pick and choose the laws we obey? Can I ignore provincial laws I don’t like? Is it to much to expect my government to act like adults? Leadership is not being the loudest voice drawing the most attention, it’s getting positive action achieved.
Mark Graunke, St. Albert
