I am strongly opposed to the…

I am strongly opposed to the “Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, 2025 (Bill 5),” which appears to prioritize unchecked development over environmental protection, Indigenous rights, and democratic accountability.

This bill essentially gives the government the power to override well-established environmental review processes and remove public oversight. Fast-tracking projects by removing notice and consultation requirements is not progress—it’s a step backwards. These processes exist to catch mistakes, consider alternatives, and prevent irreversible damage to ecosystems and communities.

The bill also sends a troubling message about the value of Indigenous voices in land use decisions. Creating special economic zones without meaningful consultation risks repeating historical patterns of exclusion and disrespect. We should be moving toward more collaborative governance with Indigenous communities, not less.

Additionally, the removal of public comment rights silences the very people who are most affected by these decisions. Citizens deserve the opportunity to understand what’s happening in their province and to offer feedback. Stripping away that right is undemocratic and out of step with the values Ontarians expect from their government.

If the government truly wants to “protect Ontario,” it should do so by strengthening environmental oversight, not eliminating it. This bill sacrifices long-term sustainability and trust for short-term development gains—and that is a price too high to pay.