The proposed changes to the…

The proposed changes to the Aggregate Resources Act will do very little to protect the environment or minimize impacts to communities. As with the changes to the Species at Risk Act and the Provincial Policy Statement, this can only be seen as part of a continued effort by the current provincial government to ease the way for industry to gain access to sensitive landscapes.
The Discussion Paper: A Blueprint for Change (2015), which was meant to become a basis for Bill 39, was released in an effort to strengthen the previous ARA to provide stronger oversight, environmental accountability, and improved information and participation. Many would argue that Bill 39 did not achieve what was intended. And now, considering the scientific evidence and public outcry surrounding the threat of climate change, would it not be prudent for the MNRF and MECP to be pushing for stronger guidelines? Softening protections for nature in order to fast-track development is not the way to protect our natural assets for the generations to come!
The current ARA process favours the proponent. The proposed amendments will not improve that! Please consider the following:
1. Municipalities deserve to have a say in what occurs within their municipalities. While the regulators should have the final say, there should be opportunity for communication and a coordinating role with the Province.
2. There are countless abandoned pits and quarries in Ontario. Rehabilitation requirements should be strengthened, including tighter timeframe guidelines and assurances of pre-extraction conditions.
3. There should be incentives to promote the use of recycled aggregates.
4. Proponents should be expected to analyze the impacts of aggregate operations on local property values as part of their ARA license requirements and Planning Act approval.
5. Public consultation requirements should be improved for the benefit of residents in the form of increased notification area and commenting period.
6. Public health is a key concern for nearby residents. The aggregate application review process should include the Ministry of Health as a review agency.
Thank you for your consideration in this matter.