SA Humanist Society calls for explanation on SA Firearms Act amendments
by Hon Ian Gilfillan MLC
Democrats Party
9 July 1999
The Humanist Society of S.A. Inc. invited S.A. Democrat MLC The Hon Ian Gilfillan to explain his private members bill to amend the SA Firearms Act to interested members of their Society. Members of the public were also invited.
About twenty people were in attendance, including SSAA Director of International Affairs and Public Relations, Keith Tidswell and IPSC Executive Officer Tony Parmiter.
Ian Gilfillan gave a 30 minute run down of aspects that concern him about the status of the current SA Firearms legislation. He focused upon the writings of Grossman and the affects that video games may have upon our youth. SSAA presented him with a copy of the Grossman book "On Killing" at the meeting.
There was lively discussion on what Ian Gilfillan requires in his amendments - SSAA were able in most cases to put up a logical argument as to why his requirements were not going to have any affect on crime reduction or increase in safety to the public. The audience listened intensely. Discussion covered self defense, security of firearms, junior shooters etc.
Ian Gilfillan quoted heavily from Chapman's book "Over our Dead Bodies" - and seemed to be unaware of other literature that gives another side to the argument.
In summary all those in attendance went away aware of the ability of the "gun lobby" in being prepared to put its case forward in a disciplined and professional manner. Well done to all those firearm owners that attended.
Home > Research archive > 1999 > SA Humanist Society calls for explanation on SA Firearms Act amendments