I am greatly concerned that…

I am greatly concerned that this government is taking advantage of a crisis that in the end will severely restrain democratic processes and public consultations.

It is very concerning that Bill 97 was passed without public consultation and in effect has rolled back Greenbelt protections that have been in the legislation for decades. Now the government promises to amend the "Places to Grow Act" which will severely impact the majority of the population in the GTA. At risk is the already jeopardized Ontario Greenbelt, a protected area that is the largest in the world and which is the breadbasket for Ontario residents.

Prioritizing urban sprawl over the preservation of prime farmland and nature, in particular habitats that are vital to species at risk is not only foolhardy but ultimately places people at risk should food supply become compromised. The current pandemic is only a test run for future crises that may include closed borders, even to food transports coming from California.

Removing the obligations for municipalities to consult with Indigenous communities is an outrage, and further shows how this government is willing to disregard Human Rights Commissions regulations and recommendations.

Inaccurate and misleading figures were used to predict population growth.