I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 5, The Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act, 2025. This legislation represents a dangerous rollback of environmental protections, particularly through the planned repeal of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). It threatens the health of Ontario’s ecosystems, undermines democratic participation in land-use decisions, and prioritizes short-term private gain over long-term public interest.

By replacing the ESA with a weaker framework under the proposed Species Conservation Act, the Ontario government is creating legal loopholes that allow developers to bypass oversight. Public consultation - an essential part of democratic planning - is being eroded, while environmental impact assessments and Indigenous rights are sidelined.

This is not how we build a resilient, affordable Ontario.

We are in the midst of a housing crisis, but Bill 5 does nothing to address its root causes. There is an abundance of research and urban planning expertise pointing to viable solutions: mixed-use infill housing, transit-oriented development, and cracking down on speculation. These are sustainable, community-driven strategies that protect both people and the planet.

What Bill 5 proposes, instead, is deregulation disguised as progress—an approach that will cost Ontarians dearly in biodiversity loss, climate resilience, and public trust. We do not need to sacrifice nature to solve the housing crisis. We need better planning, stronger protections, and leadership that listens to the people.

Withdraw Bill 5 and commit to a path forward that reflects evidence-based planning, ecological responsibility, and respect for democratic engagement.