Concerns Regarding Gun Law Changes and Potential Violence Against Muslims - Seeking Clarification
Yasir Shaikh made this Official Information request to Ministry of Justice
The request was partially successful.
From: Yasir Shaikh
Dear Ministry of Justice
*Subject: Concerns Regarding Gun Law Changes and Potential Violence Against Muslims*
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding recent developments involving rapid changes to gun laws, particularly those enacted under the guidance of Mr. McKee, as reported on 8th September 2024. These changes have sparked widespread concern among various communities, including the Muslim community, of which I am a part.
New Zealand has historically been a peaceful country, with communities from different backgrounds coexisting harmoniously. However, we have also experienced tragic instances of violence, most notably the Christchurch mosque attacks, which have left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds. With these recent changes to gun laws, there is growing unease that such modifications might lead to a rise in the availability of firearms, potentially increasing the likelihood of violence and hate crimes, particularly targeting vulnerable communities such as Muslims.
In light of this, I am seeking clarification and advice from the Ministry of Justice on the following:
1. *What mechanisms are currently in place to ensure that these gun law changes will not lead to an increase in violence, particularly against Muslims and other minority communities?*
2. *In the unfortunate event of any future incidents of violence against Muslims, what steps will be taken to hold Mr. McKee or any other responsible parties accountable for their role in making firearms more accessible?*
3. *How does the Ministry of Justice plan to safeguard the rights and safety of Muslims and other minorities in this evolving legislative landscape?*
It is imperative that we learn from past events and take proactive steps to ensure that our laws do not inadvertently put any community at risk. I strongly urge the Ministry to consider the potential long-term consequences of these changes and to put in place stringent measures that will help prevent any escalation of violence in our society.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your prompt response and to learning more about the steps that will be taken to address these pressing concerns.
Yours sincerely,
Yasir Shaikh
From: OIA@justice.govt.nz
Ministry of Justice
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From: OIA@justice.govt.nz
Ministry of Justice
Tēnā koe Yasir,
Thank you for contacting the Ministry of Justice.
We acknowledge receipt of your request regarding firearms reform and the
safety of Muslims and other minority communities.
This has been forwarded to the relevant business unit for consideration
and response.
You can expect a response by 7 October 2024.
The Ministry of Justice may publish the response to your request on our
website, you can expect that if your OIA is to be published that this will
take place at least 10 working days after it has been sent you. Your name
and any other personal information will be withheld under Section 9(2)(a)
(protect the privacy of natural persons).
Ngā mihi,
Ministerial Relations and Services |
Corporate Services
Ministry of Justice | Tāhū o te Ture
Level 6 Justice Centre | Aitken Street
DX Box SX 10088 | Wellington
[1]www.justice.govt.nz
-----Original Message-----
From: Yasir Shaikh <[FYI request #28338 email]>
Sent: Monday, September 9, 2024 12:44 PM
To: [Ministry of Justice request email]
Subject: Official Information request - Concerns Regarding Gun Law Changes
and Potential Violence Against Muslims - Seeking Clarification
Dear Ministry of Justice
*Subject: Concerns Regarding Gun Law Changes and Potential Violence
Against Muslims*
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my deep
concerns regarding recent developments involving rapid changes to gun
laws, particularly those enacted under the guidance of Mr. McKee, as
reported on 8th September 2024. These changes have sparked widespread
concern among various communities, including the Muslim community, of
which I am a part.
New Zealand has historically been a peaceful country, with communities
from different backgrounds coexisting harmoniously. However, we have also
experienced tragic instances of violence, most notably the Christchurch
mosque attacks, which have left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds.
With these recent changes to gun laws, there is growing unease that such
modifications might lead to a rise in the availability of firearms,
potentially increasing the likelihood of violence and hate crimes,
particularly targeting vulnerable communities such as Muslims.
In light of this, I am seeking clarification and advice from the Ministry
of Justice on the following:
1. *What mechanisms are currently in place to ensure that these gun law
changes will not lead to an increase in violence, particularly against
Muslims and other minority communities?*
2. *In the unfortunate event of any future incidents of violence against
Muslims, what steps will be taken to hold Mr. McKee or any other
responsible parties accountable for their role in making firearms more
accessible?*
3. *How does the Ministry of Justice plan to safeguard the rights and
safety of Muslims and other minorities in this evolving legislative
landscape?*
It is imperative that we learn from past events and take proactive steps
to ensure that our laws do not inadvertently put any community at risk. I
strongly urge the Ministry to consider the potential long-term
consequences of these changes and to put in place stringent measures that
will help prevent any escalation of violence in our society.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your prompt
response and to learning more about the steps that will be taken to
address these pressing concerns.
Yours sincerely,
Yasir Shaikh
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From: Media - Justice
Ministry of Justice
Kia ora Yasir,
Please find the response to your Official Information Act request on
changes to firearms law as attached.
Ngā mihi,
Katarina
Katarina Fauvel (nee Williams) (she/her)
Senior Advisor, Media | Communication Services
Ministry of Justice | Tāhū o te Ture
M 027 390 2703
E: [1][email address] | [2]justice.govt.nz
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