Organizational Changes

The Canada Firearms Centre (CAFC) was created in 1996 to oversee the administration of the Firearms Act and regulations. In 2003, it was established as a stand-alone agency within the portfolio of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada. As of May 17, 2006, the Canadian Firearms Program has been transferred under the responsibility of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). This change is in keeping with the Government’s objective of reducing gun crime while allowing Canadian police authorities to more effectively coordinate gun control activities with other crime control measures.

As such, the RCMP is now responsible for overseeing the day-to-day activities of the Program as well as for financial and performance reporting to Parliament. This change in the structure of the Firearms Program will enable to government to save money and streamline the administration of the Program.

This organizational change will have no impact on client service. The same services will be offered by the Canadian Firearms Program to all of our clients. The Canadian Firearms Program can still be contacted through the toll-free information line at 1 800 731-4000.