I strongly oppose the…

I strongly oppose the changes proposed in Bill 5 that would undermine the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in Ontario. The ESA is a crucial piece of legislation designed to protect the most vulnerable species and their habitats. Weakening it puts at risk not only the survival of endangered plants and animals but also the long-term health of Ontario’s ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural heritage.

Removing or weakening protections for endangered species serves short-term development interests at the expense of irreplaceable environmental losses. Scientific research consistently shows that habitat destruction is the leading cause of species decline. By loosening regulations or allowing exemptions, we are accelerating the extinction of species that cannot recover once their environments are degraded or destroyed.

Furthermore, these changes conflict with Ontario’s responsibility to uphold national and international biodiversity commitments, including those under the Convention on Biological Diversity. We must prioritize sustainable development that protects both the economy and the environment, not sacrifice one for the other.

Ontarians overwhelmingly value nature and biodiversity. I urge the government to reconsider Bill 5 and instead strengthen support for conservation, habitat restoration, and science-based environmental policy.