Ottawa Inks $12.4 Million Deal with Quebec, Paving Way for Nationwide Program

The federal government is advancing its plan to compensate owners of prohibited assault-style firearms. A new agreement with Quebec signals that the national program for individual gun owners is set to launch in the near future.

In a news release dated January 7, 2026, federal Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree and Quebec’s Public Security Minister Ian Lafrenière announced a financial agreement of up to $12.4 million. This funding will help Quebec manage the collection of firearms from individuals participating in the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program (ASFCP).

While this specific funding is for Quebec, the announcement confirms the program will open to individual firearms owners across Canada, including New Brunswick, in the coming weeks. The program for businesses opened last year.

How the Program Works

Once launched, owners of firearms prohibited in May 2020 will be able to apply for compensation. The process involves submitting a declaration to either turn in the firearm or have it permanently deactivated. After approval, you can submit a claim for compensation.

“This agreement with the Government of Québec represents a significant milestone as we move to launch the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program for individuals,” said Minister Anandasangaree. He noted the funding ensures police have the resources to collect the firearms without affecting other public safety duties.

The amnesty period for possessing these firearms is currently set to end on October 30, 2026. After this date, individuals still in possession of the prohibited firearms will not be in compliance with the law.

Minister Lafrenière voiced his support for the federal initiative. “Implementing this program is a step in the right direction for safer communities,” he stated. “The safety of Quebecers is a top priority for our government.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program?

It is a federal program designed to compensate individuals and businesses for turning in or deactivating specific firearms that were prohibited by the Government of Canada in May 2020.

When can individual gun owners in New Brunswick participate?

The federal government has stated the program for individual owners will open nationwide “in the coming weeks” following the January 7, 2026 announcement.

What is the deadline to participate?

The current amnesty period, which allows owners to possess these firearms without legal penalty, ends on October 30, 2026. You must participate in the program before this date.

Why did Quebec receive this specific funding?

The $12.4 million is a federal contribution to cover the costs that Quebec will incur for coordinating the collection of firearms within the province, ensuring local police services can manage the program effectively.