I am strongly opposed to…

I am strongly opposed to 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. It is 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 "protecting Ontario". It's putting short-term industrial gain ahead of long-term ecological and community health.

I'm also alarmed at the creation of “special economic zones”, which would allow cabinet to approve major development projects without proper environmental assessment! Not to mention public input or Indigenous consultation. This appears to be another reward for Ford’s friends, not unlike his previous, retracted promise to protect the Greenbelt. What about transparency, accountability and Ontario’s duty to uphold Indigenous rights and treaties?

Bill 5 would ignore real science, community voices, and erase decades of hard-won environmental progress. Have the citizens of Ontario asked for weaker protections, or less say in decisions that affect the province’s land, water and future? No!

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.