NRA ISSUES FIRST STATEMENT: Says It's Prepared To Help Ensure Mass Shootings Never Happen Again

The National Rifle Association has broken its silence following its spell of quiet in the wake of the Dec. 14 shootings in Newtown, Conn.

Tuesday afternoon, the NRA issued this statement:

The National Rifle Association of America is made up of four million moms and dads, sons and daughters - and we were shocked, saddened and heartbroken by the news of the horrific and senseless murders in Newtown.

Out of respect for the families, and as a matter of common decency, we have given time for mourning, prayer and a full investigation of the facts before commenting.

The NRA is prepared to offer meaningful contributions to help make sure this never happens again.

The NRA is planning to hold a major news conference in the Washington, DC area on Friday, December 21.

Details will be released to the media at the appropriate time.

The statement follows days of speculation that the country may be ready to consider stricter gun control laws. Over the weekend, President Barack Obama signaled a readiness to take up the isssue, and California Sen. Dianne Feinstein said she is prepared to bring back legislation that would ban assault weapons across the country.

What are your thoughts? Which direction should the NRA head?