I am writing to express…

I am writing to express strong opposition to Bill 5. Beyond its dangerous environmental implications, this bill represents a serious erosion of democratic process and public accountability in Ontario.

Bill 5 strips away long-standing environmental protections, including the repeal of the Endangered Species Act and the creation of “Special Economic Zones” where laws can be suspended without public input. These changes allow major development projects to proceed without scientific review, environmental assessment, or meaningful consultation — particularly with Indigenous communities, whose rights are sidelined in clear violation of the principles of free, prior, and informed consent.

Equally concerning is the bill’s deliberate avoidance of democratic norms. It centralizes power in the hands of Cabinet, bypasses local and Indigenous governance, and eliminates key public oversight mechanisms. The public was not consulted in a meaningful way, and the bill undermines years of established environmental policy based on evidence and community engagement.

Bill 5 is not just about development — it’s about weakening the democratic foundations that ensure development is fair, sustainable, and inclusive. I urge you to withdraw this legislation and uphold the values of transparency, environmental stewardship, and democratic accountability.