section 84(1)

INTRODUCTION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

This section defines firearms officer for the purposes of Part III of the Criminal Code.

SECTION WORDING

84(1), In this Part, "firearms officer" means a firearms officer as defined in subsection 2(1) of the Firearms Act;

EXPLANATION

Section 84(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada is a provision that defines the term "firearms officer" in relation to Part III of the Code, which concerns the regulation of firearms and other weapons. Specifically, the provision indicates that the term firearms officer refers to an individual who falls under the definition outlined in subsection 2(1) of the Firearms Act. The Firearms Act is a federal law that was introduced in 1995 to regulate the possession, transfer, and use of firearms in Canada. Subsection 2(1) of the Act defines a firearms officer as an individual who is authorized by the Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to perform certain tasks related to the administration of the Act. These may include, among other things, issuing firearm licenses and permits, conducting inspections of firearms businesses, and enforcing compliance with the legislation. Under Part III of the Criminal Code, several offences are established that relate to the possession, use, or trafficking of firearms and other weapons. These offences carry significant penalties, including lengthy terms of imprisonment. One of the key objectives of the Firearms Act and the regulations made under it is to reduce the incidence of gun violence in Canada and to enhance public safety. By defining the term "firearms officer," Section 84(1) of the Criminal Code helps to ensure consistency in the application of Part III of the Code. It clarifies that when the Code refers to a firearms officer in this context, it is referring to an individual who has been authorized by the RCMP to carry out the administration of the Firearms Act and related regulations. This definition helps to ensure that individuals who are tasked with enforcing Canada's firearms laws have the necessary training and expertise to do so, and helps to build public confidence in the regulatory regime.

COMMENTARY

Section 84(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada defines a "firearms officer" as an individual who falls under the definition outlined in subsection 2(1) of the Firearms Act. The section is a part of the Criminal Code's Part III, which deals with firearms and other weapons. The meaning of the term "firearms officer" is essential under this part of the code because it signifies an individual who has authority and a specific role in the handling, licensing, and storage of firearms and related activities. The Firearms Act, in conjunction with the Criminal Code of Canada, outlines stringent measures regulating firearm ownership and control in the country. The act mandates that all firearms owners must be licensed and registered, and all firearms must be stored safely to prevent any unauthorized access or use. The firearms officer plays a crucial role in enforcing these regulations and ensuring the responsible use of firearms in society. Subsection 2(1) of the Firearms Act defines a firearms officer as any person who is authorized, appointed, or designated by the Chief Firearms Officer (CFO) to carry out specified duties under the act. The CFO has an enormous responsibility in ensuring the safe and proper management of firearms in the country. The Chief Firearms Officer is appointed by the federal government and has wide-ranging powers when it comes to the licensing of firearms, transportation, and storage of firearms. The role of the firearms officer is, therefore, to assist the CFO in these duties by performing certain tasks as directed by the Chief Firearms Officer. These tasks include the issuance of licenses to firearms owners, the management of gun ranges, and the inspection of gun stores. Firearms officers also have the responsibility of ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations regarding firearms, including the safe and responsible use, handling and storage of firearms. The Firearms Act outlines strict regulations regarding the ownership and possession of guns, and these regulations ensure that firearms do not fall into the hands of those who may have the intention of using them for criminal activities. The role of the firearms officer is crucial in regulating the possession and use of firearms to ensure that the safety of Canadians is not compromised. The firearms officer must also ensure that all individuals and businesses dealing with firearms comply with all required documentation and regulations. It should be noted that the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code recognize the need for people to own firearms for various reasons, including hunting and personal protection. The firearms officer's role is to ensure that firearms owners follow all applicable laws and regulations, as well as to promote responsible ownership of firearms. In conclusion, Section 84(1) plays an important role in identifying and defining the "firearms officer" under the Criminal Code of Canada. It acknowledges the essential task that firearms officers perform in ensuring the proper and safe use, handling, and storage of firearms in Canada. The firearms officer plays a critical role in the implementation and enforcement of firearms laws and regulations, working towards creating a safe and responsible society.

STRATEGY

Section 84(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada is an important provision that outlines the definition of a "firearms officer." This provision is relevant in cases where charges are laid for offences related to the possession, use, or storage of firearms, as it determines who has the authority to enforce the Firearms Act. One strategic consideration when dealing with this section is ensuring that the definition of a "firearms officer" is well-known and understood by all parties involved in the case. This includes the accused, their counsel, and the prosecutor. It is important to establish who qualifies as a firearms officer under the definition in subsection 2(1) of the Firearms Act, as this will help determine which evidence is admissible and which witnesses can be called upon to testify. Another strategy that could be employed when dealing with section 84(1) is to challenge the designation of a firearms officer in a particular case. For example, if the prosecution relies on testimony from an individual who is not a designated firearms officer under the Firearms Act, the defence may move to have their evidence excluded. This could weaken the prosecution's case and result in charges being dropped or reduced. It is also important to consider the role that firearms officers play in enforcing the Firearms Act. These individuals are responsible for administering the licensing and registration of firearms, as well as investigating and prosecuting offences related to firearms. Thus, one strategy could be to call into question the impartiality or competence of a firearms officer in a particular case. This could be done by challenging their qualifications, experience, or training, as well as by examining their actions in relation to the specific incident in question. Furthermore, understanding the potential consequences of a conviction under section 84(1) is another key strategic consideration. Depending on the nature and severity of the offence, an individual found guilty of violating this provision could face significant fines, forfeiture of firearms and other property, and even imprisonment. This underscores the importance of a thorough and strategic approach to defending against charges related to firearms offences. In conclusion, section 84(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada defines the role of firearms officers in enforcing the Firearms Act. When dealing with this section, it is important to establish the definition of a firearms officer, challenge the designation of individuals as firearms officers, and consider the potential consequences of a conviction under this provision. By adopting a strategic approach to defending against firearms offences, individuals charged with such offences can improve their chances of obtaining a favorable outcome.