Canada Created Chief Firearms Officer for North

The federal government established a dedicated role to oversee firearms administration across the three territories.

Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in People

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a brass compass resting on a topographic map, symbolizing northern administrative oversight. — Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree announced a new Chief Firearms Officer role to manage firearms administration across Canada's three northern territories. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree announced the creation of a new Chief Firearms Officer position on September 17, 2026. This role will serve Yukon, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut with a focus on northern-specific needs.

Why it matters

The Northern Services Review determined that existing systems did not account for the unique geography, governance, and cultural realities of the North. Consultations revealed critical gaps in local safety course delivery and federal outreach.

The federal government established this single position to cover three distinct territories, marking a departure from previous administrative structures. The office holds exclusive jurisdiction over the implementation of the Firearms Act.

The players

Gary Anandasangaree

He serves as the Public Safety Minister and is responsible for the administration of the Firearms Act.

Canadian Firearms Program

This federal agency is responsible for administering firearms regulations and conducted the necessary consultations in the North.

The details

The new position will provide services specifically tailored to the unique jurisdictional and cultural landscape of the Canadian North. An interim Chief Firearms Officer from Yukon is currently serving the region while the government moves forward with an open selection process for a permanent official.

The Canadian Firearms Program held regional consultations throughout 2024.
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree announced the creation of the position on September 17, 2026.

Market Landscape

This appointment follows the implementation framework established by the Firearms Act. It marks a shift toward regionalized federal administration to better serve distinct geographic populations.

Residents across the territories should anticipate improved access to mandatory safety courses and more consistent federal outreach. These changes are intended to streamline the regulatory experience for northern firearms owners.

The takeaway

This change signals a shift toward prioritizing regional accessibility in federal governance. Northern residents can expect more localized services that reflect the specific cultural and geographic requirements of the North.