The numbers don’t lie. In 2024, more Canadians than ever earned their Possession and Acquisition Licences (PALs,) and that’s good news for public safety, no matter what the politicians say.“The number of adults in Canada with a government-approved gun licence rose to a new high in 2024,” writes Nicolas Johnson, “again defying the Liberal Party-led administration’s actions to criminalize gun users and confiscate our gear.”This five-year surge in lawful firearms ownership reflects a growing interest in firearms and Canadian gun culture, and it’s driven by factors ranging from personal safety to sport shooting to hunting.While the Liberal government sinks billions into policies that punish the innocent, everyday Canadians are quietly doing the opposite.They’re getting trained.They’re choosing responsibility over political rhetoric.They’re joining Canada’s culture of safety because they want to preserve our heritage for future generations..Let’s be crystal clear.The government doesn’t hand out Possession and Acquisition Licences like Costco cards.You must pass thorough background checks, safety training courses, and legal scrutiny.If you successfully jump through all these hoops, only then can you join the community of Canadians who own firearms, use them responsibly, and obey the law.This 5 year surge in PAL holders, especially in Alberta and Ontario, isn’t a fluke.It’s a statement.“We care about public safety. We believe in personal responsibility. And we’re not buying the lie that only criminals use guns.”.Contrary to media myths, licensed Canadian firearms owners are the most vetted citizens in the country. The increase in PALs reflects a growing tribe of responsible Canadians who value tradition, safety, and personal responsibility.They’re not the ones fueling gun crime.That blame lies with gun smugglers, gang violence, and a justice system more concerned with virtue-signaling than victim protection.In rural communities, a PAL is more than a hobby. It’s sometimes a necessity.Whether it’s for hunting, predator control, or simply being prepared when law enforcement is miles away, firearms ownership meets real, tangible needs..These aren’t vigilantes. They’re stewards of safety, accountability, and education.Gun clubs, sports shooting leagues, and the Canadian Shooting Sports Association are building communities rooted in training, responsibility, legal literacy, and mutual respect.That’s what true public safety looks like. Not billion-dollar bans.While Ottawa plays politics, Canadians are doing the responsible work. They’re becoming more educated, more trained, and more engaged.As Calibre Magazine rightly put it, the Liberal gun bans “have all been a colossal failure.”.What hasn’t failed?Canadians who refuse to be disarmed by virtue signaling ideology.Canadians who refuse to trade responsibility for false security.The record high number of PAL holders in 2024 is a positive development for Canada, not a problem.It reflects a growing community of responsible, law abiding citizens who prioritize safety, education, and compliance; a community who understands that real public safety is built on trust, not fear.Tony Bernardo is the Executive Director of the Canadian Shooting Sports Association
