Dear Committee, I am an…

Dear Committee,

I am an Ontario resident and I am writing to voice my opposition against Bill 5. I understand the Bill is introduced to propel the economic development of Ontario, but the immediate negative impacts and serious downstream implications of Bill 5 should be addressed. This bill proposes alarming changes across multiple statutes, including the Endangered Species Act, Environmental Assessment Act, and Ontario Heritage Act, among others.

These changes will firstly weaken protections for endangered species and their habitats by replacing the robust Endangered Species Act, 2007 with a diluted Species Conservation Act, 2025. It will limit public and Indigenous consultation in decisions that profoundly impact land, heritage, and ecological integrity. It centralises power in ministerial hands, allowing the government to override municipal bylaws and exempt development projects from basic environmental oversight.
Finally, it bars legal recourse by extinguishing the public's right to seek justice through lawsuits or other legal means, including on issues as fundamental as land use, procurement, and biodiversity.

This bill does not represent the will of the people of Ontario. It prioritises unchecked development over environmental stewardship, corporate convenience over public accountability, and speed over due process.
I urge the government to withdraw Bill 5 in its entirety. Ontario deserves legislation that fosters economic resilience without sacrificing the environment, heritage, or legal rights of its citizens. Responsible growth must go hand-in-hand with transparency, sustainability, and respect for Indigenous and community voices.
I also want to highlight that it is possible to build a future with great economic growth without causing extensive damages to the environment. While I understand the government wants to bring positive changes to the province, there is better ways of doing so, and one that will lead to a win-win situation.

Please take this letter as a formal objection to the bill and a request that you respect the values that make Ontario strong and liveable for future generations.