I strongly oppose Bill 5,…

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 ecosystem 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 projects without proper assessment, public input or Indigenous consultation.

Ontarians have not asked for weaker protections or less say in decisions; Bill 5 would silence community voices.

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 protection.