Where to begin. The changes…

Where to begin.

The changes that are proposed are certain to compromise the Species at Risk (SAR) and their habitat. The changes will in effect, allow development and infrastructure to proceed uninhibited and without regard for any consequences as it relates to these species that are already struggling to survive in this developing world. Allowing proponents to begin activity immediately following registration will allow them to proceed without regard for any impacts to SAR or their habitat. This action is all in support of allowing development and infrastructure to be constructed without regard for the environment in general. There must be a balance!

The registration-first approach that is proposed will remove the need for SAR investigations and will drive proponents to simply register without consideration of the species that may be present. Establishing a "framework for setting clear expectations and rule for proponents to follow" will not work if they are allowed to register and then proceed. The work will already be done, the damage will be done before any "framework" is in place. In addition, registering an activity allows a proponent to commit the damage to the habitat. How is this going to ensure the continuity of a SAR?

Voluntary initiatives? Which proponent does anyone know that will undertake restoration on a voluntary basis? Who are you kidding? And how can you strengthen out ability to enforce species protection laws when there will be no laws with this new proposal?

The new definition of habitat isn't nearly enough to protect a species. There is no species that can survive in the face of development with only their den or nest protected and the area "immediately surrounding" it. What is the definition of "immediately surrounding"? 10 m? 20 m? This is ridiculous.

The Ford government must consider the long-term impacts to a reduction in biodiversity as a result of losing SAR.

While it is true that at present the process to obtain a permit is onerous, the solution to this process is not to gut the ESA but rather to staff the MECP so that they are able to process the applications in a timely fashion.

I am stunned and saddened that the Ford government is proposing such drastic changes to the ESA. This is inexcusable, infuriating and unacceptable. He has tried to alter the Greenbelt Act, removed EA requirements to name a few idiotic moves. This one is beyond reason. The consequences are out there waiting. It's not all about building new houses and roads as fast as we can. It's working with nature and maintaining natural spaces that support the mental health of the population.