We are concerned that the…

We are concerned that the proposed changes to the Ontario Endangered Species Act may water down the protections of endangered wildlife and their habitat. Changes must seek to improve protections.

A blanket approach to landscape protection does not suffice for individual species. There are situations where a species-specific approach is warranted.

Independent bodies such as the Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario (COSSARO) are necessary to determine the status of species. The ministry’s process must be transparent and communicated to the public in a timely fashion.

We can no longer afford delays and/or inaction in protecting species at risk and their habitat. We are talking about the possible extinction of a species. We do not want this on our conscience.

Permits that are detrimental to endangered species and their habitat should be denied or at the very least, should have strict conditions applied, and resources must be allocated to enforce those conditions.

As mentioned in a recent e-mail we received from the World Wildlife Fund, “Clearly defined no go zones protect wildlife – while creating efficiencies for business by making it clear where development won’t be permitted.”

Please ensure that the provisions of the Ontario Endangered Species Act will provide strong protection for species at risk and their habitat.

Thank you.