First of all, I'd like to say that I'm very happy that there are associations that advocate ownership, safe and proper use of firearms. Although I'm not a member of any association, I do benefit from their efforts.

Here's what I had to do yesterday when I purchased a new rifle and scope from a local firearms dealer here in Canada.

Before I could even handle the rifle I wanted, I had to produce a valid Canadian "Possession and Acquisition" license. When I decided to purchase the rifle, I had to produce my drivers license as my second piece of photo I.D.(our new drivers licenses in Ontario have a computer chip, hologram and are tamper resistant)After 5 minutes of paper work, he made a phone call to Miramichi, NB, which is where the Canada Firearms Centre is, and spoke with an R.C.M.P constable. He stated who he was and why he was calling. After a bunch of bla bla bla, he hands the phone to me! I had to verify specific information and answer several questions. I really was quite impressed with the whole procedure considering what was being done.

Now it's up to me to use and properly store my firearms and not let them fall into the wrong hands! That is where all the problems lay(lie)! I think the penalties for improper storage or unlawful possession of firearms are inadequate at best. Minimum periods of incarceration need to be applied as well as severe fines.