The federal long-gun registry was a bureaucratic nightmare, plagued with unnecessary red tape that wasted millions in taxpayers' dollars. We're glad the Tories voted to scrap it. However, we are concerned about the kind of message that this highly politicized move will send. Strict gun control, including the registering of long guns, is an excellent idea. We just need a better system.

It was no surprise that the Conservatives easily passed a bill to kill the registry earlier this week, ending about two decades' worth of debate and controversy.

We believe the issues involves two distinct issues: The concept of gun control and the flawed registry itself.

The RCMP has pointed out that registering firearms provides officers with the information needed to ensure public safety, pointing out that the "majority of firearm deaths in Canada are caused by long guns."

Not only that, but Canada's gun-control laws are among the many things that have helped shape our identity.

Our country's commitment to public safety is one of those unique Canadian values, akin to public health care and embracing multiculturalism.

We hope that the Harper government will not alter legislation to satisfy a rump group of enthusiasts.

Canada's doesn't need a bureaucratic registry that drains taxpayers' money.

But it does need strict gun control.