The Ford government has…

The Ford government has introduced Bill 5 a Trump-style example of government over-reach in that it mirrors exactly what Trmp has done in the US, specifically Utah, to undemine enviornmental protection so that exploitation of resources can proceed without delay. This Unleashing our Economy Act would certainly unleash the decimation, if not total destruction, of any number of plants and animals as it rolls back our Endangered Species Act. The replacement protections are so diminished that they are virtually not protection at all, covering only the den/nest and thearea immediately around it. If passed, the same limits will also apply to rootzones of endangered plants and aquatic species as well. How are any of these fragile populations supposed to continue to exist when further habitat destruction, already the primary reason for being on the list in the first place, has been given the green light? For those on the Endangered Species list, recovery is no longer a goal, so no plan will be put in place to achieve that end or even monitor their numbers. And, it limits the recognition of new species at risk, so the effects will grow.

Currently, industry must receive permits to undertake activities that will kill or harm species at risk,AKA Pay to Slay" whereas in the future they simply have to register their intent to kill or harm species. The protections of our water, air, species etc. is not Red tape, but something precious to be preserved for all of us.This habitat destruction can take place in any land the cabinet designates a“special economic zone”. We have been told this legislation is imperative to develop mining in the Ring of Fire and the economic benefits from that (again,without thought to the environmental impacts; think lost carbon storage). But,“special Economic zones” can be anywhere in the province and for any project whatsoever, without guideline or criteria. They can include cities like Orillia, or individual residential or commercial properties (e.g. a car dealership or cottage lot) and for any reason. In fact, the current language proposes unrestricted discretion to the premier and his cabinet, without requirements for consultation with anyone or debate with the rest of our elected representatives. What kind of democracy is that? That outdoes even Strong Mayor powers for lack of respect for our democratic form of government.

Once picked, the premier/cabinet can choose “trusted proponents” who will be given the authority to undertake the selected projects. These partners can be any person or company, again, without criteria. They then become exempt from any provincial or municipal law (e.g. Planning Act, Environmental Protection Act,Occupational Health and Safety Act, Highway Traffic Act, and Trespass to Property Act). We already have cause to worry about Mr. Ford’s deference to his developer friends. The potential for abuse in every one of these steps is mind-boggling !

So, after being handed the mandate he asked for to fight Donald Trump, our premier’s actions parrot Trump’s almost completely; concentrate power, do what-you- want, wherever you want, without consultation or consideration or morality over the costs to others or respect for our democracy.
This a a bad Bill. It jeopardizes the future, the environment, various species and our democracy.