Ontario Premier Rejects Federal Gun Buyback Program, Calls for Focus on Criminals Instead

Ontario Premier Doug Ford speaks to the media at Queen’s Park in Toronto on Jan. 21, 2026. The Canadian Press/Nathan DenetteOntario Premier Doug Ford said he opposes the federal gun buyback program, calling on Ottawa to instead focus on illegally obtained firearms and bail reform in its efforts to make streets safer.Ottawa has earmarked over $700 million for the buyback program, which launched nationwide on Jan. 19, and has the stated goal of tackling gun crime by compensating gun owners who voluntarily turn in “assault-style” rifles that now fall under the government’s list of outlawed firearms.