I OPPOSE Bill 5!!! I want…

I OPPOSE Bill 5!!!
I want STRONG ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTIONS for endangered species!!!
I OPPOSE shortcuts for industry with no public oversight and overriding the law in special economic zones!!!!

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding Bill 5, the "Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, 2025." This bill poses significant THREATS TO ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTIONS, Indigenous rights, and public participation in decision-making processes.

Key Concerns:

1. Special Economic Zones:
Bill 5 proposes the creation of "special economic zones" where designated "trusted proponents" could bypass existing environmental laws and municipal bylaws. This not only undermines democratic oversight and the rule of law, but also sets a dangerous precedent for unchecked development with minimal accountability.

2. Weakened Environmental Protections:
The bill seeks to repeal the Endangered Species Act, 2007 and replace it with the weaker Species Conservation Act, 2025. This change significantly diminishes protections for at-risk species and their habitats, prioritizing economic considerations over ecological responsibility.

3. Exemption from Environmental Reviews:
Projects such as the Dresden landfill and the Eagle’s Nest Mine would be exempted from environmental assessments under Bill 5. Canceling these critical evaluations removes essential scrutiny of potential risks to water quality, wildlife, and public health, leaving communities vulnerable.

4. Drastic Weakening of Species Protections:
The replacement of the ESA with the new Species Conservation Act narrows the government’s responsibility to protect biodiversity. It removes automatic listings of threatened species, undermines habitat definitions, and prioritizes development over ecological preservation.

5. Disregard for Indigenous Rights:
Fast-tracking resource extraction and other major projects without proper consultation flagrantly violates the rights of Indigenous Peoples. It contravenes the principles of free, prior, and informed consent as outlined in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, to which Canada is a signatory.

You should withdraw or substantially amend Bill 5 to make sure it upholds environmental standards, respects Indigenous rights, and maintains public participation mechanisms.

You should also consult Indigenous communities and environmental experts to develop the policies that so greatly affect all of us, the environment and Indigenous peoples.

Ontario’s long-term prosperity must not come at the cost of our ecosystems, democratic integrity, or the rights of Indigenous Peoples. I urge you to RETHINK THIS LEGISLATION and lead with vision, sustainability, and respect.