I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong objection to Bill 5, which proposes significant amendments to Ontario’s existing protections for species at risk under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). If passed, this bill would severely undermine conservation efforts and the province’s responsibility to protect biodiversity.

Key Concerns:

Weakening of Permit Requirements:
Allowing projects to proceed through a "streamlined registration process" rather than the more rigorous ESA permit system removes critical oversight and environmental due diligence. This fast-tracked approach prioritizes development speed over ecological integrity, increasing the risk of irreversible harm to already vulnerable species.

Authorization of Harmful Activities Without Permits:
Granting permission for activities that can disrupt the normal behavior of protected species—such as feeding, migration, or reproduction—without a permit is deeply troubling. This change ignores scientific understanding of species sensitivity and habitat needs, and it erodes key protections that are essential for their survival.

Reduction in Dual Oversight:
Easing the burden on proponents by minimizing the need for both ESA and SARA (Species at Risk Act) authorizations reduces accountability. Federal and provincial collaboration is vital to effective species protection. Diluting these standards undermines efforts to prevent extinction and to recover threatened populations.

Bill 5 represents a dangerous shift toward deregulation that will have long-term ecological consequences. Species at risk are already facing mounting pressures due to habitat loss, climate change, and human encroachment. Weakening their legal protections at this critical time is not only irresponsible—it is unjust.

I urge you to reject Bill 5 in its current form and instead uphold and strengthen Ontario’s commitment to biodiversity and ecological stewardship.