Deciphering Bill C-21 and May 2020 OIC: A Skills Gap Trainer’s Analysis of Canada’s Legislative Changes and the Future of Sports Shooting and National Security

 

In the Senate – SECD Meeting: 36 CLONE

 

 

Skills Gap Trainer comment:
 
To the esteemed CCFR audience and respected Senators,
 
We address you today as representatives of our modest non-profit educational organization. We’re committed to understanding, participating in, learning from, and positively contributing to the dialogue on sports shooting in Canada. After watching the first half of the CCFR SECD committee meeting video, we present a few insights and reflections.
 
 
1. On Mr. Dominic Leblanc’s Remarks:
 
Mr. Dominic Leblanc undoubtedly showcases competency and negotiation prowess. However, his remarks on the “importation of American culture” warrant attention. It’s vital to acknowledge the substantial philosophical contributions made by American intellectuals and their legal system over the past four centuries. America, historically, has been a beacon of inspiration. Diminishing their legacy to mere cultural appropriations overlooks their profound impact on governance, liberty, societal structures, and the significant influence American legal frameworks and thinkers have had in shaping and economically developing regions like India, Asia, Central America, Latin America, China and Europe. We urge the CCFR audience, sports shooting enthusiasts, conservative communities, and traditional entities like hunting communities to engage Mr. Leblanc in constructive dialogue. The goal? To emphasize that Canadians can discern and judiciously borrow useful knowledge, law and Philosophy from our neighbours, particularly in matters of philosophy and law.
 
 
2. Flexibility and Legislation:
 
Mr. Leblanc’s statements suggest some flexibility, especially acknowledging sports shooting. Yet, the May 2020 OIC and Bill C-21 raise numerous concerns. Our preliminary, albeit quite expedited, examination has identified at least 50 significant issues. A shift from a decentralized capitalistic model – where law-abiding citizens own firearms (including semi-automatic rifles) and thereby maintain a legal connection to the governance structure – to a centralized, Warsaw Pact-style government-only firearm ownership paradigm, significantly alters our national security approach. This redefines the foundational relationship between citizens and their government, and the power dynamic between citizens and government, a type of power concentration where authority or responsibility is not scaled in a hierarchy throughout society.
 
 
3. The Request and Responsibility:
 
The magnitude of the proposed legislative changes is colossal. Such transformative proposals demand enormous trust and collaboration from Canadians, and it demands a quid pro quo. Policymakers bear the responsibility to reciprocate with respect and assurances, reinforcing the commitment to individual security, environmental access, hunting access, and sports shooting access.
 
 
4. On Sports Shooting:
 
While our non-profit’s technology-oriented members are in the early stages of acquainting themselves with sports shooting, we’re passionate about this discourse. We deeply appreciate senators, particularly Senator Marty Deacon, for underscoring the intricacies of sports shooting. An inclusive definition of sports shooting is vital – one that encompasses all disciplines and firearm types, ensuring no individual sports shooting discipline, either present or potential in Canada, is sidelined. Historical neglect of Canada’s sports shooting ecosystem, and the complete lack of sports shooting education or sports shooting media throughout the entire life of all Canadians, demands reconciliation; else, we risk perpetuating and intensifying historical injustices.
 
For reference, popular sports shooting disciplines include but aren’t limited to:
 
IPSC (International Practical Shooting Confederation) – Handguns, Rifles (including semi-automatic rifles, ex: Canadian made 180s), Shotguns, and PCC (Pistol Caliber Carbine).
 
IDPA (International Defensive Pistol Association) – Focus on practical handguns.
 
PCC (Pistol Caliber Carbine) – Semi-automatic carbines chambered in pistol calibers.
 
USPSA (United States Practical Shooting Association) – Handguns, PCC, and Multigun. Multigun stages often feature semi-automatic rifles.
 
PRS (Precision Rifle Series) – Primarily bolt-action rifles, though semi-automatic rifles (DMR) can occasionally be featured in some divisions or stages.
 
3 Gun Handguns, Rifles – (predominantly semi-automatic rifles, ex: Canadian made 180s), and Shotguns.
 
 
5. The Path Forward:
 
Senator Peter M. Boehm’s insights strike a chord, underscoring the need for comprehensive outreach and exemplifying his commendable leadership and earned wisdom. Thank you for asking for outreach to sports shooting communities and gaining an agreement that this is in fact what will happen. A myopic approach, especially overlooking semi-automatic rifles, is insufficient. Policymaking must ensure that a diversified variety of sports shooting disciplines, emblematic of our varied cultural aspirations and the legacy of historic warrior leaders and athletes, is cultivated and maintained.
 
In wrapping up, the SECD committee faces a complex mission: safeguarding public safety, fortifying community ties, and nurturing and expanding the sports shooting realm in Canada. It demands discernment, reverence, and an in-depth grasp of our nation’s ethos, especially considering the longstanding lack of education and potential long-term legislative restrictions which may have occurred in this area for a century.
 
Your attention is much appreciated. We ardently hope for a future marked by dialogue, respect, and mutual understanding.
 
 
P.S.: “We appeal for the safeguarding of Canadian bolt-action and semi-rifle manufacturers like Black Creek Labs, Kodiak Defense, Lockhart Tactical, Crusader Arms, Sterling Arms and CADEX. Their invaluable contributions to sports shooting and hunting shouldn’t be overshadowed. Their contributions to maintaining firearms marksman knowledge. It is highly unfortunate that citizens cannot attain a status in society as a Marksman. It is highly unfortunate they are not part of this conversation, that one can develop this skill and identity and be accepted as a warrior with competency, as a unique and historical identity. We must remember past instances, like Bombardier, where domestic industries faced challenges. We must remember that we cannot go on as a nation subverting our identities, our industries, our sports. At one point, the Senators must rise to negotiate with fierce determination to grow these fantastic ideas that culture has developed, not extinguish them out of existence throughout the 21st century. It’s high time we rally behind our native companies and even the traditional communities, drawing a line in the sand to ensure their protection and growth. If YouTube allows this post, congrats.”
 
 
@glenhoddinott3799 comment:
 
“Canadians needs our own version of the Second Amendment”
 
 
@604cpr comment:
 
“If the goal is to reduce gun violence, then perhaps they should consider actually going after criminals. Perhaps a gang task force, strengthened border screening, or simply not continually releasing known violent offenders.”
 
 
@DarenDubhh comment:
 
“My main take from this is: Pass the law and we’ll flesh out the details later. This seems to be a huge violation of Canadian’s rights. The Liberal government on this issue have shown, time and time again, that they don’t finish things they start. I am fearful that many Canadians will be made ‘criminals’ if this legislation is allowed to pass.”
 
 
@YungStinkyWinky comment:
 
“Senator Dasko might be the stupidest person I’ve ever witnessed. She literally had no idea what the bill was about or what the 2020 OIC was about. She should not be able to vote on this if she’s got no idea what’s going on around her.”
 
 
Skills Gap Trainer comment:
 
“@YungStinkyWinky It’s unfortunate that candidates for entry-level work in public provincial or federal agencies often have up to 20 years of professional academic and work experience in fields such as design and software engineering, hoping to secure simple spots such as answering the door or phone. Meanwhile, top level government workers responsible for the entire public safety and national security infrastructure, do not even read 1 page of Bill C-21, when they are responsible to vote on it. :(“
 
“This is a FN joke, what a waste of money””
 
 
Skills Gap Trainer comment:
 
@TrevorWitherspoon-qj6ju “The current leadership is destroying wealth. They do not have any priority to build wealth, or another way to say it, to build a future world with a tech and artistic vision. Only we remain to push a great vision into reality.”
 
 
 
Related Content:
 
From: Skills Gap Trainer
 
To: Senators of Canada, Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (SECU), Standing Senate Committee on National Security and Defence (SECD)
 
Date: Sept 26th, 2023
 
Re: Scrap Bill C-21 / May 2020 OIC, STEM Education Professionals 
 
I am writing to emphatically urge you to consider the multifaceted implications of Bill C-21 / May 2020 OIC and to advocate for  reconsideration. This proposed legislation, while presented with the intent of public safety, poses a considerable threat to the civil liberties, property rights, cultural heritage, and national identity of Canada. Given your role as a revered defender of democracy, the responsibility now rests on your shoulders to prevent this potentially unjust bill from eroding the fundamental rights that generations of Canadians have fiercely defended.
 
The deeply concerning Bill C-21 / May 2020 OIC, which is promoted under the banner of public safety, threatens to introduce damage that could permeate every layer of Canadian society. Director Valentin of Skills Gap Trainer  has extensively documented the ramifications of this bill, highlighting the severe harm it could inflict if made into law.
 
The main challenges and issues associated with Bill C-21 / May 2020 OIC are manifold, and while I list them extensively here, this isn’t an exhaustive commentary:
 
  1. Infringes civil liberties and property rights of millions of lawful, responsible gun owners who comply with regulations.
  2. Disproportionately impacts rural communities by banning firearms relied on as vital tools.
  3. Lacked transparency and consultation with lawful gun owners, Indigenous groups and rural Canadians.
  4. Selectively omitted data and experts contradicting the bill’s agenda-driven narrative.
  5. Could permanently erode Canada’s cultural heritage and identity by dissolving activities embodying the ‘warrior ethos.’
  6. Penalizing lawful owners risks unintended public safety consequences while ignoring root causes of violence.
  7. Contradicts and disregards existing, demonstrably effective gun control measures already in place.
  8. No compelling evidence justifies prohibiting conventional hunting rifles as “military-style assault weapons.”
  9. The vague definition of “variants” grants excessive regulatory power without accountability.
  10. Warrantless search powers violate citizens’ privacy rights and due process.
  11. Ignores Canada’s obligation to honour Indigenous treaty rights to sustainably hunt.
  12. Reflects a dismissive attitude toward rural Canadians’ norms, values and lifestyles.
  13. Excluded lawful gun owners from consultation despite disproportionate impact.
  14. Erroneous firearm classifications could ban countless firearms safely used for decades.
  15. Grants unchecked authority to make sweeping regulatory changes without transparency.
  16. Increased criminalization risks unsafe illegal weapons procurement.
  17. Dismissed alternative evidence-based policy solutions in favour of a simplistic ban approach.
  18. Violates Charter rights to property, expression, due process and liberty.
  19. Punishes lawful owners for the actions of criminal gun users – inherently unjust.
  20. Fails to meaningfully invest in border security, mental health services, addiction support, community programs and fighting organized crime – all proven to effectively promote public safety.
  21. No impartial evidence links lawful gun ownership to increased public safety risks.
  22. Damages Canada’s reputation as a progressive, inclusive society respecting cultural diversity.
  23. Risks alienating lawful gun owners, undermining compliance and cooperation over distrust.
  24. Allows excessive discretion to ban firearms based on physical appearance instead of functionality.
  25. Sets a troubling precedent for overriding democratic processes, dismissing evidence, & eroding civil liberties.
  26. Poses risks to domestic security by reducing capabilities of lawful owners to serve as a counterbalance to centralized power.
  27. Could severely damage Canadian sports shooting which uplifts our athletes on the global stage.
  28. Fails to comprehend the cultural significance of hunting for Indigenous communities.
  29. Indicates a lack of adequate education on firearm safety, training and responsible ownership.
  30. Reflects a dismissive view of conservative thought, identities and principles.
  31. Overlooks the perspectives of European immigrants and the valued ‘warrior ethos’ in their cultural identities.
  32. Perpetuates false dichotomies surrounding gender by suppressing traditional notions of masculinity.
  33. Ignores the need for balance between administrative and warrior ruler philosophies throughout history.
  34. Could deprive Canadians of philosophical development and maturity cultivated through firearms training.
  35. Contributes to a society disconnected from history, principles of freedom, and civic responsibility.
 
Further exacerbating the situation is the bill’s conflict with multiple existing pieces of critical legislation and legal precedents, all intended to protect the rights and freedoms of Canadian citizens:
 
  1. The bill conflicts with Section 2 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which staunchly defends freedom of expression and every individual’s right to liberty and security.
  2. It stands in violation of Articles 18 and 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which are pillars safeguarding the freedom of thought and opinion.
  3. Bill C-21 also infringes upon Articles 18 and 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which emphasizes the sanctity of freedom of expression and opinion.
  4. From a cultural standpoint, its enactment would breach the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, thereby undermining the preservation of cultural practices and traditions like “International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC)” shooting sports.
  5. Importantly, Indigenous treaty rights, especially those allowing sustainable hunting and provisioning for communities, would be unlawfully disregarded.
 
Bill C-21 / May 2020 OIC also raises alarms about military preparedness, national security, and public safety by diminishing the firearms experience of responsible Canadian gun owners. This experience is crucial if these citizens are ever called upon to serve as reservists. Regrettably, the bill sidesteps making substantial investments in public safety measures like mental health services, community programs, border security, and initiatives to combat organized crime, all of which are pivotal in genuinely enhancing public safety.
 
In summary, Bill C-21 / May 2020 OIC, if passed /enforced, will undeniably be a grievous infringement on the rights of citizens. It promises irreversible damage without ensuring the promised uptick in public safety. The bill dismisses hard evidence, goes against our established legal framework, and blithely oversteps constitutionally protected rights and freedoms.
 
Your role as a champion of democracy, due process, lawful gun ownership, and ethical policy-making has never been more pivotal. I implore you to be the voice of reason, to oppose this bill, and to stand firm in preserving Canada’s identity, sovereignty, and democratic foundations. The rights of millions hang in the balance, and they hinge on your willingness to act decisively.
 
For a deeper understanding, I invite you to peruse our detailed report titled, “Extinguishing Enlightenment: The Unseen Dangers of Bill C-21 to Canada’s Historical, Cultural, Intellectual Foundations, Individual Rights, Freedoms, and Public Safety“. You can access it at https://skillsgaptrainer.com/extinguishing-enlightenment-the-unseen-dangers-of-bill-c-21/
 
In my role as an Applied Science Technologist – Information Technology (AScT), Information Systems Professional (I.S.P) and Computer Scientist BA (CSC),  I have always committed to prioritizing the well-being of the public. This ethos guided our research, and I sincerely believe in the potency of knowledge and technical capability in empowering society. Eagerly awaiting your proactive stance on this pressing issue.  – Valentin, SGT
 
 
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Skills Gap Trainer comment:
 
“Indeed, this moment may represent a critical juncture for the preservation of liberty, safety and security within Canada — a pivotal ‘last stand.’ However, it does not signify the ultimate battle for our very existence. That chapter is yet unwritten, potentially unfolding in a future marred by global conflicts as nations are inexorably drawn into the vortex of global war, or perhaps it will arise amid the myriad crises of our 21st century as predicted by hundreds of highly engaging and popular books published on the great Amazon book library by great intellectuals pertaining to their analysis of the future. We are poised on the precipice of change, facing the daunting challenges of climate-induced mass migrations, acute shortages of water, dwindling resources estimated to expire within 10 to 35 years, and economies in scarcity from 20th century debt spending chains. Moreover, we stand on the cusp of a spiritual and existential revolution, one that could see humanity venerating artificial intelligence to god like status, as it merges with the fabric of bio-synthetic life, heralding a new era of existence, where technology is master of living organisms. These are but a few of the specters that loom on the horizon, far surpassing the immediacy of current legislative battles. It is good to see some seriousness from the SECD committee, as we noticed the seats were packed with analysts. We can’t wait to watch this latest video of Canada’s philosophical journey into the abyss, a journey more enthralling than any dystopian film we could have written… maybe. 🙂“
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Take Action!

YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/AxQpALxhNX0?si=kGKoyPh2PjAYRQ9k

 

 

Related books and resources:

“Gun Control in Canada: A History” by R. Blake Brown: This book provides a historical overview of gun control laws in Canada, which could help readers understand the background and context of current legislative changes.

“The Canadian Regime: An Introduction to Parliamentary Government in Canada, Sixth Edition” by Patrick Malcolmson, Richard Myers, Gerald Baier, and Tom Bateman: This book offers insights into Canada’s parliamentary system, which is crucial for understanding how laws like Bill C-21 are proposed, debated, and enacted.

“More Guns, Less Crime: Understanding Crime and Gun Control Laws” by John R. Lott Jr.: While focused on the American context, this book provides arguments and statistical analyses that could be pertinent to discussions around Bill C-21 and firearm legislation in general.

“Shooting to Kill?: Policing, Firearms, and Armed Response” by Peter Squires and Peter Kennison: This book explores the relationship between firearms and law enforcement, offering insights relevant to discussions on public safety and firearms legislation.

“Canadian Firearms Law and Policy” by James B. Stribopoulos and M. A. Ginn: This work provides a comprehensive overview of firearms law and policy in Canada, helping readers understand the legal landscape surrounding Bill C-21.

“Democracy in Canada: The Disintegration of Our Institutions” by Donald J. Savoie: This book discusses the challenges facing Canadian democracy and institutions, offering a broader context for legislative changes and public discourse.

“The Global Gun Epidemic: From Saturday Night Specials to AK-47s” by Wendy Cukier and Victor W. Sidel: Provides a global perspective on gun control issues, which can enrich the discussion on Canada’s legislation.

“Rural Crime and Community Safety” by Vania Ceccato and Rania Rostami: This book discusses crime and safety in rural settings, relevant to the debate on firearms access for rural residents under new Canadian gun laws.

“Policing and Society: A Global Approach” by Marc L. Steinberg: Offers insights into policing practices around the world, which can provide a comparative perspective to Canada’s approach to public safety and gun control.

“Armed America: The Remarkable Story of How and Why Guns Became as American as Apple Pie” by Clayton E. Cramer: While focused on the U.S., this book provides a comparative backdrop that can enrich understanding of the “importation of American culture” argument in the Canadian context.

 

 
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