I understand the need the…

I understand the need the strengthen Ontario and Canada’s economy in response to the uncertainty created by the current US Administration. But the actions proposed in Bill 5, imposing “Special Economic Zones” that override local planning decisions, and gutting current legislation that protects our Environment, Indigenous Rights and Workers is short sighted and prone to abuse. I am writing in the hopes that cooler heads will prevail, that you will oppose Bill 5. Consultation and review may feel slow, but working together on sustainable, collaborative and democratic solutions can strengthen our communities, economy, and protect our natural heritage in ways that will benefit Ontario for generations to come.
Water is our most important resource, and we’ve seen many events that show why we need to protect and carefully manage our watersheds and wetlands - complex systems subject to the laws of chemistry and physics, not economic policies. Remember the devastating impacts of tainted water in Walkerton? Remember the flood events in Bracebridge, Toronto, and Toronto, and Toronto…? Many homes and businesses can’t even be insured against flooding any more.
It's soul destroying to think of all the challenges young people are facing and how helpless they must feel in such an uncertain world. Between geo-political instability, extreme weather events caused by runaway climate change, mis & disinformation fueled by social media algorithms and a seemingly intractable affordability crisis - at least give them the security of knowing that they can depend on Ontario’s democratic institutions to protect their rights.
If Bill 5 passes I fear it will open the door to irreparable harms that will haunt Ontario for generations to come.