Kerry McCluskey
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (July 08/02) - An official with the Inuit Working Group on firearms legislation said she is disappointed by the federal government's lack of response to suggested changes to the Firearms Act.

Lorraine Brooke, a consultant hired to head up the group, said last Thursday they presented Justice Minister Martin Cauchon with proposed changes that would make the act culturally appropriate for Inuit.

While Cauchon has been in possession of the document for some time, he has yet to respond or indicate that he plans to respond any time soon.

"The proposal has been with the minister for two months. There has been no action despite reminders from Senator Watt," said Brooke.

Quebec Senator Charlie Watt formed the IWG last year because he was frustrated by the difficulties Canadian Inuit face when trying to comply with the new laws.

The act, he said, applies more to urban residents -- not to rural Canadians who rely on firearms for food and safety when travelling outdoors.

Working group representatives across the country developed a proposal that suggested adaptations the Canadian Firearms Centre could make to create laws consistent with Inuit lifestyles.

During an interview in May, Watt told News/North he was optimistic he would have a response from Cauchon by the middle of June.

"Senator Watt's position now is that the matter is in the minister's hands," said Brooke.

She added however, they do not intend to give up just yet. "We don't want to start talking about this being over," she said.

Under the Firearms Act, Canadians who own firearms are required to carry a possession and acquisition licence and must register all guns with the CFC.