New Democrats vote to fix long-gun registry

OTTAWA – New Democrats said tonight's defeat of bill C-391 must be followed by a genuine attempt to fix the registry and unite rural, northern and urban Canadians. Only then can tonight's vote be seen as a victory for anyone.

“There remain some deep divisions in our country tonight -- I have heard this loud and clear as I've travelled from coast to coast to coast," said Layton. "It’s time to heal the wounds of this poisonous debate and start delivering practical solutions for Canadians. New Democrats will always listen, consult and try and find solutions. That’s the kind of leadership my caucus and I are offering Canadians.”

Layton condemned Stephen Harper’s bitterly divisive approach to the long-gun issue, adding that the Prime Minister and leader of the Liberals Michael Ignatieff have rebuffed any attempt to compromise and find common ground.

“The person really celebrating tonight is Stephen Harper," said Layton. "But Canadians are sick and tired of cynical wedge politics. They are looking for a different kind of leadership."

With the vote now over, Layton called on Harper, Ignatieff and Gilles Duceppe to put aside reckless political games and work with New Democrats to improve the gun laws.

Last week, Layton outlined concrete proposals that preserve public safety, while also addressing the concerns of rural communities.

They include:
· merging possession and acquisition licenses;

· addressing issues with inherited firearms;

· addressing mental health issues and gun ownership;

· mandating the Auditor General to ensure the long-gun registry is cost-effective.