I strongly oppose Bill 5,…

I strongly oppose Bill 5, the Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, which proposes to repeal the Endangered Species Act — one of the few tools we have to protect at-risk wildlife and the ecosystems they depend on.

By not continuing to protect Ontario's environment, we will face even greater climate catastrophes, now and into the future, which will cost Ontarians far more in the long run. Mitigating climate change and increasing environmental protections are the best way forward. Decreasing protections for short-term gains and greed is not only short-sighted but delusional.

We can all see the devastating effects of climate change are already here - from increased severe thunderstorms and tornadoes to the horrific wildfire smoke we experienced in 2023. Taking actions that will actively contribute to climate collapse means the health and safety of Ontarians is not a priority for this government.

This is not modernization. It’s deregulation that puts short-term industrial gain ahead of long-term ecological and community health.

Equally alarming is the creation of “special economic zones” that would allow cabinet to approve major development projects without proper environmental assessment, public input or Indigenous consultation. This short cut for Ford’s friends undermines transparency, accountability and Ontario’s duty to uphold Indigenous rights and treaties.

Ontarians have not asked for weaker protections or less say in decisions that affect the province’s land, water and future. Bill 5 would silence community voices, marginalize science and erase decades of hard-won environmental progress.

I urge the Ontario government to withdraw Bill 5 in its entirety and instead work with environmental experts, Indigenous leaders and the public to strengthen — not dismantle — our systems of environmental protection.

Protecting nature is not a barrier to economic growth. It’s the foundation of a healthy, resilient and just society.