Dear Premier Ford and the…

Dear Premier Ford and the Ontario Government.
I strongly oppose Bill 5, the Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act. This legislation poses a serious threat to Ontario’s natural heritage, democratic processes and also to Indigenous rights - already hard won.

Bill 5 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. Replacing it with unenforceable measures will lead to the further decline of species already on the brink. It’s deregulation that puts short-term industrial gain ahead of long-term ecological and community health. We are already aware of the detrimental impacts to human communities, health and our ability to produce food through narrowing the biodiversity.

The creation of “special economic zones” that would allow cabinet to approve major development projects without proper environmental assessment, public input or Indigenous consultation is an extremely dangerous precedence, and limits the democratic process, that, while slower, creates a healthier adn more equitable social climate for ALL Ontarians.
This Bill undermines transparency, accountability and Ontario’s duty to uphold Indigenous rights and treaties. It allows for favouritism and financial manipulation; allows developers to take Less responsibility for what and where and how they develop land. In Ontario our farmland, especially along the corridor so favourable to large scale developers is some of the richest and most unique in the world. It's unusual composition is a result of huge geological changes that took millions of years. This should be Protected by the ON government. not sold wholesale for corporate profit.

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. What an "American" way of economy: selling out and squandering our precious resources.

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. Done with vision, our Ontario natural resources, flora and fauna, CAN be an economic driver, and a source of real and grassroots industry. And it will keep it in careful Canadian hands.