Leader of The Nationals WA, Shane Love MLA, says the Cook Labor Government’s announcement today of a third firearms buyback scheme, just one day after licensed owners believed they were expected to surrender their firearms has led some in the community to believe it is an April Fools Day prank.
Mr Love said Labor’s refusal to extend the buyback until now was entirely politically motivated and not driven by community safety as Minister Whitby has claimed.
“For months, The Nationals have consistently and forcefully called for an extension of the buyback and for fair, reasonable compensation, which Former Minister Paul Papalia flatly refused.”
“Labor is now acutely aware of its poor performance in regional areas like Albany and Geraldton at the state election, a direct reflection of its pig-headed, draconian policy that unfairly targets responsible and law-abiding firearms owners.”Mr Love said.
“Labor is making it up as they go along, this is chaotic and confusing policy making and completely lacking in respect for the very people it affects.”
Mr Love said today’s announcement, while welcome in principle, may be too little too late.
“This would have been a rational and sensible move 12 months ago. Today, it poses more questions than answers. For example, will there be retrospective compensation for those who have already surrendered their firearms?”
“In February, Labor threatened firearms dealers with the loss of their licence if these firearms were not removed from stores by the end of March. Now they expect those same dealers and owners to welcome a backflip?” Mr Love said.
Mr Love said while the announcement is a clear acknowledgment of pressure from The Nationals and the community, it must now be implemented with fairness and respect.
“It is imperative that this firearms buyback scheme is conducted at competitive market prices. Firearms owners must be properly compensated, not short-changed by a government trying to cover up its rushed and shambolic approach.”
The Nationals will move a disallowance motion on the Firearms Act regulations in the first days of the new Parliament, but Mr Love said the harsh reality is that there is simply not the numbers to stop it.”
“That said, firearms owners have my absolute commitment, The Nationals will continue the fight for fairer, more balanced firearms regulations.”
