The proposed changes to…

The proposed changes to Ontario’s Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the introduction of the Species Conservation Act (SCA) raise several concerns about the weakening of species and habitat protections. By giving the government discretionary power to add or remove species from the protected list—regardless of scientific assessments—and narrowing the definition of “habitat,” the new framework risks excluding ecologically important areas and sidelining expert input. The removal of mandatory recovery strategies and the shift to a registration-first approach could lead to harm before proper oversight or mitigation is in place. The elimination of advisory committees and reduced public and Indigenous engagement also limits transparency and accountability. Furthermore, by excluding protections for species already covered under federal legislation, the proposal may create enforcement gaps and jurisdictional confusion. While framed as a balanced approach to promote sustainable economic growth, the emphasis on streamlining project approvals may ultimately prioritize development over conservation, undermining Ontario’s ability to effectively protect its most vulnerable species and ecosystems. This is simply a tactic for Doug Ford and his government to get away with more destruction of our environment. I DO NOT SUPPORT!