Another anti-democratic move…

Another anti-democratic move by the Ford government. I live just outside Perth -- a town which recently rejected the offer of strong mayor powers. The town recognized that strong mayor powers are anti-democratic. Also, near Perth (pop 6,000) a large developer is planning a massive suburban style development on a former golf course . Plans including building some houses on a floodplain,, others close to wetlands, and the entire project has not taken into account the abundant wildlife in the area.
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 Indigenous rights.
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 vague “goals” and unenforceable measures will lead to the further decline of species already on the brink. 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.