Dear Ministry of the…

Dear Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks,

I strongly oppose the proposed changes to the Endangered Species Act, and I hope that I am one of the many voices heard in opposition to the new proposal.  Prioritizing economic development over scientific evidence poorly aligns with the purpose of the ESA, which was created to protect species at risk and their habitats.

I grew up in Ontario and want to see our province remain healthy, with rich biodiversity, thriving ecosystems, and the sounds of bird songs throughout. I want to swim in our lakes and waters and witness the rewards of protecting our environment. The environment is precious; let’s treat it with respect. Protecting animals and their homes directly impacts human health and safety. How are we comfortable putting economic profit before people in Ontario?

Some communities in our province still do not have clean drinking water, such as Attawapiskat.  As Savannah Ridley has stated, “Attawapiskat has not had clean drinking water for decades”.  The changes to this bill ignore that reality, side-stepping the government's duty to consult with Indigenous communities.

Mike Schreiner has debated eloquently about this bill, which his team summarizes:

“This bill will end the Endangered Species Act, limit Indigenous Consultation, and give the Minister authority to stop Heritage Act protections. It affects other regulations in Ontario as well, making it easier to ignore them in the guise of speeding up development.”

For Ontario’s animals, habitat, and people, I urge you not to move forward with these changes. If changes are to be made, please let them strengthen, not weaken, protections for our environment. 
 

Referenced:

Schreiner, Mike. "Debating Bill 5, ending the Endangered Species Act (among other things)" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TzTGTiGAqg&ab_channel=MikeSchreiner

Ridley, Savannah. "First Nations talk Bill 5 in northern Ontario | The Narwhal"
https://thenarwhal.ca/bill-5-northern-ontario-first-nations/