Stigma fears in leaked gun rules

Mental health advocates say part of the Government’s upcoming gun reforms could perpetuate stigma and lead to people avoiding asking for help.

But doctors say proposed provisions calling for GPs to tell police about unfit gun-owners are no different to what medical practitioners already do for other risks.

A leaked draft copy of a second part of firearm law reform proposed after the Christchurch mosque attacks shows doctors may have to consider notifying police if gunowning

patients appear to not be fit to hold a licence.

The law would allow details to go to authorities without risk of disciplinary or civil action provided it is done in good faith. The gun-owner may then be asked to undergo testing or give up their licence.

Mental Health Foundation chief Shaun Robinson said there was already a “common, unsubstantiated belief” gun violence was linked to mental distress.

“People experiencing mental health issues are far less likely to be involved in perpetrating violence. Rather, they’re more likely to be the victims of violent crime,” he said.

“The proposed legal provision is likely to perpetuate damaging stigma and discrimination for those living with mental distress.”

Robinson said he was also concerned the provision could lead to people not discussing their mental health with GPs for fear of being seen as unfit. “Anything that creates a barrier to people seeking support is highly counterproductive,” he said.

But the New Zealand Medical Association says doctors already have similar rights and obligations for other potential risks.

“One of the other situations is where they have concern about accidental injury to children. Does that mean parents won’t bring their children into doctors?” NZMA chairwoman Kate Baddock said.

She said the suggestion people would not go to a doctor because their mental illness would preclude them from having a weapon was “stretching the information a little further than credibility”.

Doctors were already allowed to pass on information in the event of child abuse, risk of suicide and risk of harming others, Baddock said.

“Where that applies we have a mandated responsibility to inform. It’s not anything new for doctors.”

Police Minister Stuart Nash has declined to comment on the details of the leaked document but says a final version has yet to be signed.

“If there are any gaps I expect the Select Committee to identify and work through these issues,” he said earlier.

The upcoming reforms include an individual gun register, significantly stricter compliance penalties and new rules for gun clubs.

Opposition leader Simon Bridges this week said, based on the leaked draft, the bill would penalise lawabiding gun-owners while not being tough enough on criminals.

The Police Association has accused National of playing politics, which Bridges denies.